What do I do about the presumably illegal basement apartment that we were not told about before signing our lease?

It depends what your goal is. Is your goal to terminate the lease? Sue the landlord? Stop the harassment? If the unit is in Chicago, you are...

I am starting a business as a sole proprietorship with the assumed name, DMG Enterprises.

It is unlikely that state of Illinois would grant you permission to operate under an assumed name that is nearly identical to that of a corporation...

Throwing concerts, how to best protect myself?

You should probably get more insurance and also consult with an estate planning lawyer that has experience with asset protection. Robust insurance...

I agree with Mr. Nickel. You are going to have a difficult time proving the towing company caused the damage since you didn't notice the hole for a...

Rent and eviction

The landlord would have to file an eviction against you, get a judgment, and have the sheriff remove you. This takes time and money. Any rational...

My landlord wants me out of my apartment in February 2014, but my lease is up May 2014. What are my rights as a tenant?

He has no right to force you to leave before your lease is up. If you are willing to move, suggest he buy you out, if not, inform him that he can...

No eviction notice asking me to leave in less the 24 hours

Your landlord must evict you through the judicial process, he cannot just tell you to leave or use self-help such as changing locks or cutting off...

Can Police Take Suicidal Person By Force?

These matters can end badly, especially with someone of his size. Though it is rare that the police shoot a suicidal person (so long as they don't...

I need to know if this contract my friend signed can be broken at all.

Have her bring the contract to a local lawyer. It's likely the contract was poorly drafted and the lawyer may be able to terminate it.

I live in Illinois... how long can I stay in my house if i stop making payments right now.

You should consult a lawyer unless you are planning on filing bankruptcy too. Many banks are going after mortgagors for deficiency judgments, so...