| Volume 43 Number 1 |
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The People’s Lawyer’s Tip of the Day
How do you know if something is fact or "urban legend"? The next time someone tells you about an easy way to make a lot of money, get free gift certificates or secret codes for withdrawing money from an ATM, chain-letters that work, strange effects from everyday products, or anything else that just doesn't seem right, check it out Click here for more.
The Truth Behind Extended Warranties
Have you bought any electronics or appliances in the past few years? If so, you've probably been offered an extended warranty. This holiday season alone, consumers are expected to pay a billion dollars for extended warranties. However, most electronics and appliances are already covered by a standard manufacturer warranty. Furthermore, most electronics and appliances outlast the timeline to repair or replace under an extended warranty. Accordingly, almost all of the money spent on extended warranties will be profit for the company. Next time you make a purchase, do you really need an extended warranty? Click here for more.
Auto Sales Continue to Slump
Earlier this year automotive sales experienced a boost through the "Cash for Clunkers" program. Since then, the automotive market has experienced a dramatic decrease in sales. Despite the downward trend, Ford and GM plan to ramp up product in 2010. Will auto sales stabilize? Click here for more.
Swine Flu Cases on Downturn
According to the CDC, H1N1 ("Swine Flu") infections are decreasing nationally. In November, the virus was widespread across forty-three states. Today that number is down to thirty-two. Will the virus rebound and make another run? Click here for more.
Your Money
Many Americans spend the duration of their careers preparing for retirement. Some start saving early while others may wait. Generally, the sooner you start saving, the sooner you can retire. Will you be able to retire early? Click here for more.
For the Lawyers
Class action ban is unenforceable. The Ninth Circuit has invalidated a class action ban found in Direct TV’s contracts. The Court ruled that DirecTV's contractual class action ban violates a "fundamental policy" of California and that the company could not use the "choice-of-law" provision in its contract to avoid the application of California law in this case. Click here for more.