Legal Question in Real Estate Law in California

Use of false address

I apologize but I don't know which area of law is most pertinent for this question.

My sister, who has already filed a false police report against me as well as making many slanderous comments, has now apparently used my home address as her own. I have started receiving credit offers, etc. addressed to her although she has never lived in my home and in fact lives in another city. I am afraid that she may further try to use my personal info if I do not stop this. Is it against the law to use someone else's address, where you have never resided, as your own?

This has been a very difficult situation for me and I appreciate any assistance you might provide.


Asked on 9/22/05, 9:10 pm

1 Answer from Attorneys

Bryan Whipple Bryan R. R. Whipple, Attorney at Law

Re: Use of false address

It would certainly be illegal for your sister to direct your mail to her address. I doubt that it is "illegal" in the sense of being punishable by fine or imprisonment to direct her mail to your address. At most, and without more, this is a minor nuisance, probably not something for which one can bring a civil suit.

Of course, if the mail thing is coupled with some larger scheme to defraud someone, or to evade creditors or service of process or arrest, the situation is very different.

I would save the mail and forward or personally deliver it from time to time. If this doesn't work, consult your postmaster for advice on how to handle this situation in a way consistent with postal laws and regulations. You cannot be forced to provide a secretarial service for your relatives.

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Answered on 9/23/05, 1:50 am


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