Peter Kinney articles

It’s easy to assume that if a deck has been standing for years without issue, it’s in the clear. That is, until the city flags it as unpermitted and demands action. Luckily, whether they can actually force you to remove it depends on a mix of local bylaws, safety concerns, and what steps you take next.

You thought the hardest part was over once the relationship ended. Then the calls start coming in. Creditors are reaching out about thousands of dollars in credit card debt that your ex racked up, and somehow your name is being dragged into it too. You didn’t make those purchases, so why are you being asked to pay?

The eviction process is so long and frustrating that it hardly seems fair. Here's how to approach the situation.

You thought everything was settled when your relative passed away, since their will clearly named you as the beneficiary of their property. Then out of nowhere, their former business partner shows up claiming there was a verbal agreement that gives him half of the property. That kind of situation feels confusing and stressful. Luckily, if you have a written legal document, you also have the upper hand.

If the previous owner of your house keeps coming by for unwanted visits, you need to take action quickly.

One day your business bank account is working normally. The next day, payments start bouncing, payroll won’t process, and the bank tells you your account has been frozen due to a fraud investigation. This situation happens more often than people realize. Luckily, there are some things you can do to speed up the process of getting your money released.

You meant to pay your friend, but you sent money to a stranger with a similar name. On Venmo, many payments are instant, which makes the mistake feel irreversible. The good news is there are a few realistic paths to getting your money back, but speed and documentation matter.

You and your siblings to sell a house together, but after multiple offers, one of your brothers changed his mind. The realtor has done his job and is now demanding a commission. Now what?

Your grandfather wants you to have his vintage motorcycle. But he’s receiving long-term care and is on Medicaid. You need to know how Medicaid treats gifts.