| Volume 39 Number 7 |
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The People’s Lawyer’s Tip of the Day
Don't let anyone steal your identity when they go "phishing". Phishing is when an identity thief sends you a fake notice that looks like it's from a bank, creditor, credit card company or PayPal, telling you there is a problem with your account and to reply. Never reply to any email asking for personal information. If you think it is a real request, call the creditor to confirm it. Click here for more.
Consumer Financial Protection Agency Update
A new agency is on the way - the Consumer Financial Protection Agency. The new agency is creating some controversy, most recently in the Senate. Financial institutions that sell more "exotic" financial products will be required to make disclosures for meaningful comparison, offer "plain vanilla" alternatives, and more. Experts suggest the cost of compliance will be very high. How could a high cost of compliance for business be bad for consumers? Why do we need the Consumer Financial Protection Agency anyway? Click here for more.
Cleaning Up the Foreclosure Mess
In the last year, more than 10,000 homes in Harris County have fallen in to foreclosure. Oftentimes consumers abandon their homes quickly, leaving garbage behind for their neighbors to deal with. After numerous complaints throughout the Houston area, Investigative Reporter Amy Davis found out who is ultimately responsible for cleaning up the mess. Has a recent foreclosure left trash in your neighborhood? Click here for more.
Texas Attorney General Settles With Dish Network
Dish Network has agreed to pay $6 million to consumers stemming from allegations that retailers selling Dish Network products mislead consumers. Dish Network refused to accept responsibility when consumers complained about the practices. Although Dish Network still denies liability, they have agreed to make fuller disclosures of terms of service, rebate offers, and other information, in addition to a financial settlement. How will the $6 million be distributed? Click here for more.
Living Will & Medical Power of Attorney
Do you live in Texas? Have you completed a living will and medical power of attorney? These forms allow you to take charge of your medical care when you are incapacitated. Click here for more.
Your Money
The best way to save on health-care costs. Click here for more.
For the Lawyers
Debtor doesn't have right to jury trial in turnover order action. The First Circuit has ruled that a Chapter 11 debtor did not have a right to a jury trial under the Seventh Amendment in actions by trustees to compel the turnover of property to the estate under 11 U.S.C. ยง 542. Click here for more.