Cannot empty trash: "The operation can't be completed because the item ...

I've been having trouble emptying the trash. I get the following error, "The operation can’t be completed because the item "_file name_" is in use."
I've tried unlocking the files, but the unlock doesn't seem to stick.
I'm not sure if this is related, but a couple of months ago, I had a repair done and since then some of my software have required me to enter my license information again; apparently it looked as if I was running the programs on a different machine.
Anyone have tips/solns?

Thank you!
I ended up sticking the startup disc in, restarting while holding down the "c" key, and "using the Reset Home Directory Permissions and ACLs function of the Reset Paswoord function of the Utilities menu."
It worked perfectly; I now have an empty trash can.

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