So, long story short, we’re dealing with a situation in our subdivision where some neighbors want to use a piece of our property as a recreational easement. Normally, I wouldn’t care, but the problem is that we’d be liable for anything bad that happens there, even though we’re not involved. We lost the case in court (twice!) even though it goes against the laws and agreements we have in place. A bunch of lawyers told us we should’ve won, but somehow the judges ruled against us, and we’re starting to think there might be some shady stuff going on… maybe bribing? It’s a small town and these neighbors have a lot of money and connections. Has anyone dealt with anything like this before? What can we even do?
Bribing judges? That seems a bit far-fetched, but if you really think something’s up, you might be able to request an investigation. But honestly, have you tried appealing again or finding a higher court?
@Flynn
Yeah, we already appealed once and lost again. It’s crazy! The lawyers we’ve talked to said it’s not even close to a fair ruling, so IDK what to do.
Reilly said:
@Flynn
Yeah, we already appealed once and lost again. It’s crazy! The lawyers we’ve talked to said it’s not even close to a fair ruling, so IDK what to do.
That’s tough. Maybe get in touch with the state bar or some kind of legal ethics board? They might be able to help if there’s something shady happening.
I get the frustration, but bribing multiple judges is a HUGE risk for them. Are you sure it’s not just some local bias or something? Maybe they’re just siding with the ‘old money’ out of habit?
Avi said:
I get the frustration, but bribing multiple judges is a HUGE risk for them. Are you sure it’s not just some local bias or something? Maybe they’re just siding with the ‘old money’ out of habit?
I mean, it’s possible. This town has a lot of ‘good ol’ boys’ stuff going on, and these neighbors have pulled sketchy moves before. But yeah, who knows if it’s straight-up bribes or just bias.
Wait, what does ‘easement’ even mean? I’m lost lol.
Griff said:
Wait, what does ‘easement’ even mean? I’m lost lol.
Basically, it’s a part of your property that other people can use for a specific purpose. In this case, sounds like the neighbors want to use it for recreation but the OP would be liable if anything goes wrong.
@Avi
Got it, thanks! That sounds like a nightmare though. Yikes.
Honestly, this sounds more like a problem with small-town politics than outright bribery. You could try escalating it to a higher court outside the local jurisdiction?
Aeron said:
Honestly, this sounds more like a problem with small-town politics than outright bribery. You could try escalating it to a higher court outside the local jurisdiction?
That’s what we’re thinking next. Maybe the state level would be more fair. I hope, anyway…
IDK about bribes, but if you’ve already tried everything locally, might be time to lawyer up with someone from a bigger city who isn’t part of the local scene. They might be more aggressive in getting this sorted.
@Aeron
Good idea! We’ve been sticking with local lawyers, but maybe we need someone who’s not afraid to shake things up.