limamike,
Hang in there, you've almost made it through CT basic training, knock you down to bring you back as a member of the team.
What you describe in your OP is fairly common(if I picture it correctly). Random google image.
EX: Left side of stairs above are dropping from settling or damage to frame that supports it. As it settles the newel post leans, out of "plumb", to one side taking the rail with it. The newel may also be loose which adds to the leaning.
Depending on the actual cause of the problem will determine how much work it would be to make it right.
Now if your 1st to 2nd floor banister is out of "level", that's a good thing.
If it were level, you got a really big job ahead