Ask a Question

Get free answers to your Contracts legal questions from lawyers in your area.

Lawyers, increase your visibility by answering questions and getting points. Answer Questions
Illinois Contracts Questions & Answers
1 Answer | Asked in Contracts and Real Estate Law for Illinois on
Q: Are text threads enough to go to court?

I have text threads showing that $200,000 was agreed upon when I purchase the house I am currently renting. If they try saying they need more than $200K, are the texts enough to take to court?

Tim Akpinar
Tim Akpinar
answered on Nov 8, 2024

An Illinois attorney could advise best, but your question remains open for two weeks. Until you are able to consult with a local attorney, the short answer is that digital evidence such as texts, screenshots, emails and similar things are generally admissible today. Rules of evidence have expanded... View More

1 Answer | Asked in Contracts for Illinois on
Q: Breach of contract

Can I Sue for breach of contract because I was in the hospital 5 years later

Tim Akpinar
Tim Akpinar
answered on Sep 11, 2024

An Illinois attorney could advise best, but your question remains open for three weeks. The question isn't fully clear in the way it's written, but it looks like you may be asking if a hospital stay gives you more time to sue than allowed by your state's statute of limitations? Do... View More

1 Answer | Asked in Contracts and Landlord - Tenant for Illinois on
Q: My landlord has not returned my security deposit for more than 45 days now and did not provide me with any estimates.

The landlord has not provided me with any receipts or estimates. Upon reminding her that its been 45 days she says i owe her money instead and refused to give back security deposit. What do i do?

James L. Arrasmith
PREMIUM
James L. Arrasmith pro label Lawyers, want to be a Justia Connect Pro too? Learn more ›
answered on Jun 21, 2024

Based on the information provided, it appears you're dealing with a potential violation of Illinois landlord-tenant law regarding security deposits. Here's what you should know and consider doing:

1. Illinois Law:

In Chicago, landlords are required to return security...
View More

1 Answer | Asked in Contracts, Foreclosure, Real Estate Law and Landlord - Tenant for Illinois on
Q: How to foreclose or evict someone that’s breached contract for deed terms

Failed to fix heat pump, roof is missing a shingle after storm, has tires stacked in yard, window unit has ruined wood siding, built a pallet fence connected to porch, removed spindles from railing to put a board as a ramp for animals without permission, and who knows what inside the house will not... View More

James L. Arrasmith
PREMIUM
James L. Arrasmith pro label Lawyers, want to be a Justia Connect Pro too? Learn more ›
answered on Apr 16, 2024

I apologize that you're dealing with a difficult situation with your contract for deed purchaser. However, I want to be very careful about providing advice, as the legal process for addressing breaches and pursuing eviction or foreclosure can be complex and varies by jurisdiction. The best... View More

2 Answers | Asked in Constitutional Law, Contracts and Entertainment / Sports for Illinois on
Q: I volunteerd w/ a nonprofit for adults w/ disabilities a place to make music. Shouldn't I get free CDs of music we made?

I wrote the music and helped them write words. They pressed up copies and won't well them to me at cost. I never gave permission to use any of the music I made and wrote. When I asked to buy copies st cost, they said no. That I would have to buy them. The concerts we all played made the money... View More

Giselle Ayala Mateus
Giselle Ayala Mateus
answered on Apr 7, 2024

In situations where multiple individuals collaborate on creating music, it's crucial to establish clear agreements regarding ownership, distribution, and compensation. If you've contributed to the creation of music and lyrics but haven't given permission for their use, you may have... View More

View More Answers

2 Answers | Asked in Constitutional Law, Contracts and Entertainment / Sports for Illinois on
Q: I volunteerd w/ a nonprofit for adults w/ disabilities a place to make music. Shouldn't I get free CDs of music we made?

I wrote the music and helped them write words. They pressed up copies and won't well them to me at cost. I never gave permission to use any of the music I made and wrote. When I asked to buy copies st cost, they said no. That I would have to buy them. The concerts we all played made the money... View More

James L. Arrasmith
PREMIUM
James L. Arrasmith pro label Lawyers, want to be a Justia Connect Pro too? Learn more ›
answered on Apr 8, 2024

From what you've described, it does seem reasonable that you should be able to obtain copies of the CDs containing music you wrote and helped create, either for free or at cost. Here are a few key points to consider:

1. Copyright: If you wrote the music, you likely own the copyright to...
View More

View More Answers

1 Answer | Asked in Contracts, Estate Planning and Probate for Illinois on
Q: I have a loan, the loaner passed away. Beneficiary is handing his estate and now want the checks made out to them.

I have a loan contract that the loaner passed away a few months ago. The person handling the estate just informed me that they are having issues cashing my checks that are made out to the deceased name. Now they want me to write the checks in their name going forward. They did not open a bank... View More

Nina Whitehurst
PREMIUM
Nina Whitehurst pro label Lawyers, want to be a Justia Connect Pro too? Learn more ›
answered on Apr 3, 2024

It is very perilous for you to do what they are asking! What if they are lying about who the proper heir(s) is/are? You could give them a lot of money and then when the proper heirs come along you have to pay the real heirs all over again. Don't do it!

Keep making the checks payable...
View More

1 Answer | Asked in Consumer Law, Contracts, Intellectual Property and Trademark for Illinois on
Q: Can I create an educational songwriting class that's called something like: Taylor Swift-inspired Hit Songwriting Class?

I'd like to create a songwriting class that teaches hit songwriting techniques used by pro songwriters such as Taylor Swift. I'd like to call the class:

"Taylor Swift-influenced Hit Songwriting Class" (or)

"Taylor Swift-inspired Hit Songwriting Class"... View More

James L. Arrasmith
PREMIUM
James L. Arrasmith pro label Lawyers, want to be a Justia Connect Pro too? Learn more ›
answered on Mar 7, 2024

Using a celebrity's name in an educational course title can be tricky, as it may raise concerns about intellectual property rights and potential false endorsement. However, there are ways to reference Taylor Swift's name in your course title that are more likely to fall under fair use for... View More

1 Answer | Asked in Contracts for Illinois on
Q: Hello,Can a contractor charge 100% cancellation fee for a service?

I ordered 2 doors for 12K. I needed to cancel or prospered since my husband was in a car accident. The Vendor Cancellation Policy was 100%

They said they will charge me 12K either way, cancel or install. Is that legal?

James L. Arrasmith
PREMIUM
James L. Arrasmith pro label Lawyers, want to be a Justia Connect Pro too? Learn more ›
answered on Feb 23, 2024

Hello! The legality of a contractor charging a 100% cancellation fee depends on the terms of the contract you agreed to when you placed the order and the consumer protection laws in your jurisdiction. If the vendor's cancellation policy explicitly states a 100% fee and you agreed to these... View More

1 Answer | Asked in Contracts and Real Estate Law for Illinois on
Q: A contractor and I did a real estate investment for 15k and 30 k was given after the sale . No response back run off.

I run off with my money, n I have texts messages of the deal .

James L. Arrasmith
PREMIUM
James L. Arrasmith pro label Lawyers, want to be a Justia Connect Pro too? Learn more ›
answered on Jan 11, 2024

In your situation, where a contractor has taken your money without fulfilling their part of a real estate investment deal, you have several legal options to consider. The text messages you have can serve as evidence of the agreement and the contractor's obligations.

First, you may...
View More

3 Answers | Asked in Contracts, Business Law, Civil Litigation and Collections for Illinois on
Q: Good morning. What is the penalty for breach of contract?

Our group sold a home health agency to another group. Our contract stated the price and monthly payment schedules. The other group has paid us a downpayment but has since missed monthly payments for over a year now. The other group is insisting that we lower the price from what was agreed upon.... View More

Bryan R. Bagdady
Bryan R. Bagdady
answered on Jan 8, 2024

In Illinois there is no penalty for breaching a contract. In fact, Illinois law expressly allows a party to breach a contract. However, once a party breaches, it is obligated to make the other side whole. Meaning that the benefit of the contract must still be given to the non-breaching party.... View More

View More Answers

1 Answer | Asked in Education Law, Employment Law and Contracts for Illinois on
Q: I work in Cook county as a secondary teacher for a private school and want to break my contract.

I have health issues and was not informed that I would be teaching in a building with poor HVAC. Most days of the week I experience headaches and spend most of my free time recuperating. My contract requires a 3 month notice. I am looking for a position outside of teaching with a better work... View More

Cynthia Pietrucha
PREMIUM
Cynthia Pietrucha pro label Lawyers, want to be a Justia Connect Pro too? Learn more ›
answered on Jan 3, 2024

I'm sorry to hear about your situation. If you have a diagnosis from a doctor indicating a disability that contributes to your headaches, it's advisable to explore reasonable accommodation options with your employer. Under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), employers are required... View More

2 Answers | Asked in Contracts, Entertainment / Sports and Intellectual Property for Illinois on
Q: I am a start up indie music label. I am currently looking to draft contracts for my artists. Where do I start?

Just not sure where to start as far as contracts. Not really sure what information should be in a contract. This is why I'm seeking legal assistance.

James L. Arrasmith
PREMIUM
James L. Arrasmith pro label Lawyers, want to be a Justia Connect Pro too? Learn more ›
answered on Dec 30, 2023

Starting with artist contracts for your indie music label is a crucial step in establishing your business. The first thing to consider is what you want the contract to cover. Common elements include the scope of the rights granted to the label, the duration of the agreement, financial arrangements... View More

View More Answers

1 Answer | Asked in Contracts for Illinois on
Q: What to do if a seller refuses to sign off on a $10,000 holdback that they breached?

We had a $10,000 holdback agreement if the seller was not moved out of the property by October 31at 11:59pm. The seller was still in the property with movers late in the afternoon on November 1. It’s clear that she breached the agreement but her reasoning for not signing off is it was not her... View More

James L. Arrasmith
PREMIUM
James L. Arrasmith pro label Lawyers, want to be a Justia Connect Pro too? Learn more ›
answered on Nov 20, 2023

In situations where a seller breaches a holdback agreement, it's important to first review the specific terms of your agreement. These terms typically dictate the conditions under which the holdback is to be released. If the agreement clearly states that the seller must vacate by a certain... View More

1 Answer | Asked in Contracts and Real Estate Law for Illinois on
Q: I payed off my house contract for deed. now their attorney wants paid for paperwork I already filled out and the seller

I did the ptax forms seller signed..now their atty who has the deed wants me to pay him 300 for the paperwork I already did to get the deed

Anthony M. Avery
PREMIUM
Anthony M. Avery pro label Lawyers, want to be a Justia Connect Pro too? Learn more ›
answered on Oct 4, 2024

What is your problem? Most contract for deed buyers get evicted and all monies forfeited. Either ay the lawyer or hire yours to enforce the contract.

1 Answer | Asked in Consumer Law, Contracts and Banking for Illinois on
Q: I bought a new vehicle and the dealership won't provide me copies of the documents I signed. can I sue?

I have contacted bank and they don't have copy of documents either. when I signed the contract, my signature was the only one on the forms. I have sent numerous certified letters and have been ignored.

James L. Arrasmith
PREMIUM
James L. Arrasmith pro label Lawyers, want to be a Justia Connect Pro too? Learn more ›
answered on Oct 2, 2024

Yes, you may have the right to take legal action against the dealership. When a business refuses to provide copies of signed documents, it can violate consumer protection laws. Start by gathering all the evidence you have, including the original signed documents, any correspondence with the... View More

1 Answer | Asked in Contracts, Gov & Administrative Law and Mergers & Acquisitions for Illinois on
Q: I want to sue Charles Schwab for Breach of Contract, Conversion, Negligence,

Emotional Distress, and for Actual and Consequential damages resulting from their refusal to allow me access to my accounts transferred to their organization, when they acquired tdameritrade, because I wont sign a paperless agreement.

Tim Akpinar
Tim Akpinar
answered on Sep 12, 2024

An Illinois attorney could advise best, but your question remains open for three weeks. It's difficult for attorneys here to offer their services through this forum - you'd need to reach out to attorneys on your own. In addition to your own searches, there is a "Find a Lawyer"... View More

1 Answer | Asked in Banking, Business Formation and Contracts for Illinois on
Q: My father has been offered a contract, to purchase distribution rights for his book, needs help from a lawyer

Would like to know if this is a scam or a legitimate offer

Giselle Ayala Mateus
Giselle Ayala Mateus
answered on Sep 11, 2024

THIS IS NOT LEGAL ADVICE.

To determine whether the contract offer for distribution rights is legitimate or a potential scam, it’s crucial to have a thorough review of the offer by a lawyer, especially one with experience in intellectual property and publishing contracts. Here are some...
View More

1 Answer | Asked in Contracts, Employment Law and Patents (Intellectual Property) for Illinois on
Q: Under the Illinois "Employee Patent Act" Section 2(1)(a)(i), what is the threshold to considered businesses "related"?

IE. a retailer of electronics and an electronics manufacturer

consider*

James L. Arrasmith
PREMIUM
James L. Arrasmith pro label Lawyers, want to be a Justia Connect Pro too? Learn more ›
answered on Aug 10, 2024

When considering whether businesses are "related" under the Illinois Employee Patent Act, Section 2(1)(a)(i), the focus is on whether the employee’s invention relates to the employer’s current or anticipated business activities. The threshold involves analyzing the nature of the... View More

2 Answers | Asked in Contracts, Criminal Law, Traffic Tickets and Constitutional Law for Illinois on
Q: Can you generate a list of lawyers who advertise practicing in law as opposed to practicing at law?
Tim Akpinar
Tim Akpinar
answered on Jun 30, 2024

Something like that might require indexing those terms on your part - many law firms do not usually make such distinctions in their practices. You could check with local and state bar associations if they might be able to offer any guidance. Good luck

View More Answers

Justia Ask a Lawyer is a forum for consumers to get answers to basic legal questions. Any information sent through Justia Ask a Lawyer is not secure and is done so on a non-confidential basis only.

The use of this website to ask questions or receive answers does not create an attorney–client relationship between you and Justia, or between you and any attorney who receives your information or responds to your questions, nor is it intended to create such a relationship. Additionally, no responses on this forum constitute legal advice, which must be tailored to the specific circumstances of each case. You should not act upon information provided in Justia Ask a Lawyer without seeking professional counsel from an attorney admitted or authorized to practice in your jurisdiction. Justia assumes no responsibility to any person who relies on information contained on or received through this site and disclaims all liability in respect to such information.

Justia cannot guarantee that the information on this website (including any legal information provided by an attorney through this service) is accurate, complete, or up-to-date. While we intend to make every attempt to keep the information on this site current, the owners of and contributors to this site make no claims, promises or guarantees about the accuracy, completeness or adequacy of the information contained in or linked to from this site.