| Volume 49 Number 3 |
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The People’s Lawyer’s Tip of the Day
The People's Law School returns to Corpus Christi on Saturday, April 17. The People's Law school is a free program focused on sharing information with the public about their legal rights and the role these rights play in their daily lives. The program is completely free and the instructors include judges, lawyers and professors. To register for People's Law School - Corpus Christi, Click here for more.
U.S. Seeks $16 Million Fine Against Toyota
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration is seeking to fine Toyota over $16 million for the way the company handled the "sticky pedal" issue. Although the proposed fine is the maximum available under the law, critics suggest the fine is merely a slap on the wrist. According to documents obtained by the agency, Toyota has known about the problem at least since September 2009. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration is conducting further investigations to determine if more violations were committed. Will Toyota face additional penalties? Click here for more.
AT&T & Verizon Fight a Losing Battle
AT&T and Verizon are fighting it out over the airways. As the companies continue to battle it out over the title "King of 3G," both companies are losing investor confidence. Since the mobile phone market is saturated, mobile phone companies generate the majority of business through existing customers or by stealing customers from the competition, rather than truly "new" customers. Despite the battle for superiority, shares of both companies dropped during the first quarter of 2010. As a result, experts suggest AT&T and Verizon may be better off by offering better deals to consumers rather than publicly airing contradicting ads on television airways. Are lower mobile service rates on the horizon? Click here for more.
Consumer Guide: Cut Your Property Taxes
Property taxes can drain your bank account instantly. In most states, property taxes are used to fund state, city, and local programs and schools. As a result, property taxes can be extremely expensive. Since property taxes are based on the value of the home, it is important to make sure the home is properly assessed. According to the National Taxpayers Union, as many as 60% of homes are overassessed. How can you save on your property taxes? Click here for more.
Credit Card Companies Fight for Revenue
Be careful with your credit cards! As credit card companies adjust to a new law limiting previous revenue-generating practices, most companies have found new ways to stick it to the consumer. What are the new practices and how can you protect yourself? Click here for more.
Your Money
What is your net worth? Click here for more.
For the Lawyers
Debt collector may violate federal law by failing to register with state. The Eleventh Circuit held that a debt collector may violate federal consumer protection law by failing to register as a collection agency in accordance with state law, the 11th Circuit has ruled. Click here for more.