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Legal FAQ | Legal Questions | Illinois State Bar Association

Legal FAQs

I’ve taken a new job and will be relocating to another city. Should I buy or rent?
05.08.2012

Consider renting for at least six months, and try to get a flexible arrangement on your lease. If the job works out, and you decide to stay, then consider beginning your house search. By that time, you will also have become more familiar with the city, its neighborhoods and the type of housing that seems right for your needs. Whatever your decision, it’s best to have a lawyer review any contracts before you sign them.

Home
I have been selected as a juror in a criminal trial in a county where cameras in the courts are now allowed. How can I ensure that my identity is not revealed?
05.08.2012

Since the Illinois Supreme Court announced its pilot project in January to allow members of the media to use cameras and taping equipment in the Circuit courts, several counties have been accepted to participate. One of the Court’s stipulations is that the identity of a juror cannot be revealed or shown. Also, the pilot project leaves the entire issue of which trials can be taped up to the individual judge.

Jury Duty
I co-signed on a lease for my best friend’s son. He fell behind on his rental payments, and now the landlord tells me I have to pay and is threatening court action. Am I on the hook for the unpaid rent?
05.08.2012

If the tenant does not pay up, then as the co-signer, you have to pay. To garnish your wages or attach your bank account, however, the landlord would need to go to court and obtain a judgment for money damages. Your situation is a reminder that co-signing for a lease, loan or credit contract is a significant responsibility. Some states, such as California, are trying to have a warning attached to a contract when a co-signer is involved, so that the responsibility is crystal clear.

Your Rights Home
As a soon-to-be bride, does the law require me to change my last name to his?
05.08.2012

Although a bride is not required by law to change her name, many do.  If you make the change, you’ll need to obtain a revised driver’s license reflecting your new name. You should also notify Social Security about the change.  If you and your future husband have a new address, that should also be reflected on your driver’s licenses. Finally, you each will need to notify your voters’ registration office of any changes in names or address.

Marriage and Divorce
Under what circumstances can the purchaser of a new vehicle obtain a replacement vehicle or full refund?
05.08.2012

A new vehicle is usually covered by a manufacturer’s warranty. Many manufacturers also have an independent arbitration system in place to deal with customer problems. Relief is also available under state or federal statutes.

In Illinois, a buyer may be able to obtain a replacement vehicle or a refund of part or all of the purchase price if: a) the car has a defect which substantially impairs the value, the safety or the use of the car; b) the defect occurs within 12 months or 12,000 miles (whichever occurs first after delivery); and c) the seller is unable to correct the defect after a reasonable time. Reasonable time generally means after four (4) or more repair attempts for the same problem or if the car is out of service for thirty (30) days or more. The buyer must have given the seller a reasonable opportunity to repair the vehicle prior to taking advantage of these statutes.

Car

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