The People's Lawyer Consumer News Alert
Center for Consumer Law
  Volume 97 Number 5

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The People’s Lawyer’s Tip of the Day

As a general rule an employer may not require an employee to take a lie detector test. The employee may be required to submit to a test, however, if the employer is investigating a theft and has a reasonable suspicion that the employee may have been involved.



For more general information about the law, check out my website.

 Click here for more.


Take Advantage of Tax Day Freebies

Tax Day finally arrives tomorrow, April 15. If you haven't prepared your taxes yet, don't be late! You could face stiff penalties if you miss the April 15 deadline.



If you have already submitted your taxes, why not take advantage of one or more of the free offers that come around this time of year? Office Max is allowing consumers to shred up to five pounds of sensitive documents for free (with coupon). Schlotzsky's is offering free sandwiches and Arby's is handing out fries. Whether you're looking for a free massage or more free food, there's something for everyone.



What Tax Day freebies sound appealing to you?


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Supreme Court May Address Gun Rights

On Friday, the Supreme Court of the United States will consider whether to hear a case challenging a New Jersey law that restricts the carrying of guns in public by requiring the demonstration of a "justifiable need." If the court takes up the case, it could be among the most important gun control cases in recent history.



Gun control has been the topic of great controversy in recent years. Additionally, this case comes at an unusual time, as former Justice John Paul Stevens recently suggested that the Second Amendment needed revision.



What could happen if the Supreme Court takes up the New Jersey gun control case?


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Supreme Court Lifts Contribution Ban

In a 5-4 decision, the United States Supreme Court ruled that aggregate campaign donation limits are unconstitutional. Although limits remain on the amount that can be given to individual campaigns, the ruling will allow wealthy individuals great freedom when donating to candidates in federal elections.



Critics blasted the ruling, citing improper donor influence and potential corruption. Others sided with the majority of the Court, praising the protection and enforcement of the First Amendment.



What does the decision in this case mean for future elections?

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Your Money

Calculate the true annual cost of your debt!
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For the Lawyers

Fourth Circuit holds FDCPA permits oral disputes of debt.

Agreeing with the Second and Ninth Circuits, and contrary to the Third Circuit, the court held that the plain language of the statute does not require disputes be made in writing.
Click here for more.

 

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