Few questions...

[Peckham]

Having spent 4 years away from Freelancer and not finding a game like it (have tried Eve Online but got bored), I'm getting back into it again :)

Just started last night and I have a few questions:

1) If I'm mining and someone comes along and tractors my precious minerals, where do I stand?
2) Once I hit 40 I know I have to get rid of my Civilian ID and join a faction... say for example I wanna join BMM, do I just have to go to one of their bases and by the ID?
3) Is there a list of ships available? I currently have a freighter and have no idea where to go next to upgrade it's puny 260odd cargo space
4) This isn't a question, but it's good to be back playing Freelancer and am excited about exploring new systems.

See you all in space :D