| Volume 54 Number 10 |
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The People’s Lawyer’s Tip of the Day
For the past 20 years, my home has been insured by the same insurance company. I always assumed my policy was priced competitively, and never shopped around. This year, after my rate was again increased, I shopped. I was astonished to find that the three quotes I received were all less than 1/2 of what I had been paying, for the same or better coverage. Most of us shop around for a television set or a car. Be sure to shop around for insurance as well. Click here for more.
Blockbuster Files Bankruptcy
With the addition of Netflix and RedBox to the video rental marketplace, Blockbuster has struggled to stay competitive and profitable. Earlier this year, Blockbuster announced the closing of 10% of its retail stores. Now, carrying an estimated $900 million in debt, Blockbuster has opted to file bankruptcy. The store will continue operating, but close hundreds of stores. Can Blockbuster adapt with consumer preference? Click here for more.
Health Care Benefits Take Effect This Week
Starting this week, new health care benefits and regulations take effect, including many major changes. Children can stay on their parents' coverage under the age of 26, children can't be denied for preexisting conditions, and sick children can't be dropped. Insurance companies are happy about the new regulations, but under the law they must implement and follow the changes. If a new rule is unclear, contact your insurance company with your questions. Click here for more.
Your Money
How much interest will you pay over the life of your loan? Click here for more.
For the Lawyers
Debtor and Bankruptcy Trustee can’t collect FMLA award. The Fifth Circuit held that a bankruptcy trustee could not collect a $1 million employment award that the debtor failed to disclose as an asset. The court noted, “Considering all of the costs and consequences that Lubke's (the debtor) inconsistent positions have engendered, we conclude that equity does not support further continuation of this litigation and that both Lubke and Reed (The trustee) must be judicially estopped from pursuing it.” Click here for more.