Solve Your Own Legal Problems

Aug. 14 -- What can you do if your neighbor's dog continues to do his business on your lawn, after you've complained to your neighbor? NFL player turned best-selling author and lawyer Tim Green says you can turn to the law for help.

Green, a former professional football player, is now a member of the New York State Bar and a practicing attorney. He says everyday people should be aware of their legal rights because it makes a big difference when they're trying to get control of a bad situation. Whether it's a dispute with the dry cleaner, an auto mechanic or a neighbor, everyday people can seek a legal solution on their own when they know how to get started.

Green took everyday legal questions from people on the street. Check out their questions and his answers below.

Q: Every morning my neighbor comes out and his dog does his business on my front lawn. How can I stop that? — Nicole

A: If you've already asked him to stop and he won't, go to your town, county, or city government offices. Every town has a litter ordinance and that's a tool you can use to get the neighbor to stop. When it comes to bringing evidence bring a picture, if you have one, of the dog in action. I wouldn't bring the actual evidence itself. Then find the code enforcement officer and give your sworn statement to them. It's the officer's job to take that statement and file a complaint with the justice of the peace who will then issue a summons to your neighbor. The police will deliver the summons and your neighbor will have to explain himself to the judge and face possible fines.

— Green

Q: I started date somebody from my office who turned out to be a total jerk.The day we broke up, he started spreading lies about me and Ireceived less responsibility from my supervisor. No one will go to lunch with me and I am nervous I will lose my job. I want to know what I can do about it?

—Hillary

A: This is serious. This is slander — that's spoken defamation of character. Libel is written defamation of character. First, you have to make sure that it's not true. Truth is an absolute defense. If the co-worker is saying something that's just incredibly embarrassing but it's true, you don't have an action. If it is a lie, I want you to become your own lawyer now.