[onewhippedpuppy]

Originally Posted by notfarnow

One day I came home to find that my neigbors had cut down two of my trees, without notice.

In their defense, they are incredibly stupid. I had put up the fence because of ongoing issues with them. I explained to them that it was 3' inside my line, but the concept was lost on them and they cut down 2 trees that were 1' on their side of the fence.

I was furious, and called my Lawyer/Father In Law. He drafted up a letter explaining the clear consequences of any such action.

1) They are not to cut down any trees or even trim branches
2) If they do cut down trees or trim branches, the police will be called
3) Any damage done to my trees will be addressed in court, and full compensation will be sought. Replacement of a 40' maple can be done, at a cost of ~10-25k.

On my Lawyer/Father In Law's advice, I went over and explained this to them very clearly, firmly and politely. Then, a couple days later he sent his letter by registered mail.

My father in law is also a mediator, and he strongly suggested that I always speak to them politely and never, ever lose my cool. Basically, never do or say anything you may have to apologize for, or answer to in a courtroom. You don't want ANY strikes against you if it ends up with the police or in court.

I also keep a small diary of any interactions or problems I have with them.

Yeah, but you're still missing two trees. Who pays for that?