| Volume 30 Number 11 |
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The People’s Lawyer’s Tip of the Day
Shakespeare said, "Neither a borrower, nor a lender be." He could have added, or a co-signer, surety or guarantor. Whenever you co-sign for someone, you must pay if they do not. If they stop paying or file bankruptcy, you must pay. Don't ever co-sign for someone unless you will be able to pay. Click here for more.
Economists Begin to Forecast 2009
Despite the economic stimulus package, economists say the economy contracted again in the third quarter. Another stimulus package is already being discussed. With forecasts for 2009 already looking bleak, what can you expect? Click here for more.
Google Competes With the iPhone
Months ago, the iPhone took the mobile phone market by storm. Just as Apple began to dominate, Google has released their own phone that will directly compete with the technological marvel. The phone is priced at $179.00. The phone features a touch screen, slide-out keyboard and a trackball. It is the first phone to run on Google's Android operating system. Click here for more.
FDIC Unveils New Mortgage Plan
Consumers having trouble keeping up with their mortgage may have some help on the way. The Chair of the FDIC told the Senate Banking Committee that the FDIC and the Treasury Department will work closely to find ways of preventing avoidable foreclosures. Specifically, they plan to use loan guarantees as a means of creating incentives for banks for restructure loans to help the consumer. Will the new strategy help you? Click here for more.
Your Money
Have you considered CD laddering? Using this strategy, an investor makes deposits over a period of several years. The goal is having all of one's money deposited at the longest term (and therefore the higher rate). Using the laddering technique, part of your investment matures annually. CD laddering is a great way to have both available cash, and investor income. Use this calculator to determine how "laddering" can help you invest. Click here for more.
For the Lawyers
Driving not a "major life activity" under the ADA. The Tenth Circuit has held that driving is not a major life activity under the Americans with Disabilities Act, even in rural Wyoming, where public transportation is virtually nonexistent and distances between towns is measured by hours rather than miles. Click here for more.