Navigating Inflation

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Rising inflation is causing American families additional added stress this fall. With back-to-school shopping and the holidays coming up, families are feeling the pinch at the pump and the register. Everyone is trying to find ways to make their dollars stretch further and minimize costs, and with prices on consumer goods spiking, despite many families cutting back on additional spending this year, experts predict a 35% increase in spending compared to 2019. Even in an economy that favors consumers, the holiday season can place a financial burden on families. How can an attorney help you through high prices? Many retailers offer special deals if you sign up for various programs, and your attorney can review those contracts for you, to help you understand all the legal intricacies of what you're agreeing to when you sign up, all for no additional fee when you're a member of our Legal Protection Subscription Plans for Families & Individuals. In the meantime, here are a few tips that may help you and your family manage inflation.

Take Advantage of Discounts

Some retailers offer special discounts and limited time specials throughout the holiday shopping season. Many offer discounts for veterans, teachers, college students, and more. Take advantage of every discount you're entitled to and consider participating in retailers' rewards programs, as well, particularly if you already shop at that store. Make sure to read the fine print or have your attorney review the contract before you sign on the dotted line.

Try To Time Your Spending

Watch for sales and try to time your purchases of non-essential items to when they're on sale. Retailers have many sales, closeouts, and special promotions throughout the holiday shopping season, so keeping an eye out for when the items you want will be on sale is a great way to save some money.

Watch Overspending

Think about things you might need that could be purchased used, or trade with other families for things you need with things you don't use anymore. Joining "buy nothing" groups on social media is one way to find out about these trading opportunities. Second hand shops, consignment stores, and thrift shops are other alternatives to getting items you need but don't want to pay full price for, and maybe make a little back by selling things you no longer need.

Re-purpose Things You Already Own

There are many times we go through closets, attics, basements, sheds, garages, and storage units and find things that we already own but we forgot we had. Many of these items can be put to use, used for something else, or sold online for cash.

During a high inflationary period, it's important to have protection in place so you're not taken advantage of in an already trying time. Maximizing financial stability starts with making sure you, your family, and your rights are protected, and an attorney will be able to help you navigate consumer finance legal issues quickly and easily and prevent you from losing more money over a sour deal. Learn more about our Legal Protection Subscription Plans for Individuals & Families, or sign up today!

Estate Plans For Expecting Parents

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The importance of an estate plan cannot be overstated, and while younger people tend to think that they don't need an estate plan until they're older, the truth is, no matter how old someone is, every adult needs to have a legally enforceable estate plan in place. This is particularly important for parents and soon-to-be parents. In fact, experts recommend that expecting parents set up an estate plan before the due date. If you need help setting up your estate plan - regardless of your age - your membership in our Legal Protection Subscription Plans for Families & Individuals lets you get a legally enforceable estate plan - including a Last Will & Testament, advanced directive, and more - included with the cost of your membership. That's right: you can get these extremely important documents created for you at no additional charge when you sign up. Learn more about our Estate Planning Benefits and read on for more info about why it's important for new parents to have an estate plan.

It is crucial to have an estate plan in place before your child arrives, for a number of reasons. Having a will is critical, and it can protect you and your child in the event of an emergency.

For Medical Care

Every medical procedure comes with risks, and a medical directive can help you decide in advance in the event of incapacitation or if you are not able to do so yourself. Your advanced directive can detail important decisions if you are not able to voice those wishes yourself, including medical priorities, so that the healthcare professionals can do their job according to your expressed wishes.

For Your Child’s Future

In a worst-case scenario, it is comforting to know that you have made plans in advance for your child in case of unforeseen circumstances. You will be able to specify who will care for your child if you can't. If you should pass away or become unable to care for the child yourself without a Will in place, the courts will decide for you what is best for the child. Sometimes, that is not a person that you would choose yourself.

For Power of Attorney

Your Will can stipulate someone who is allowed to speak for you and make decisions on your behalf if you become unable to do so yourself. Designating a person in your Will to have Power of Attorney will allow you to have someone you trust making decisions on your behalf when it comes to legal matters, business matters, and regarding things that may not have been explicitly specified in your Will.

For Your Assets

A Will allows you to determine how your assets - property, bank accounts, stocks and investments, vehicles, and more - are distributed upon your passing. Your Will gives you the opportunity to designate people to care for your property until your child is old enough to inherit.

If you have questions about making your wishes legally binding, setting up an estate plan through our Legal Protection Subscription Plans for Individuals & Families is a great, cost-effective way to do that, giving you a legally enforceable Estate Plan document in as soon as 5 days, all for one low monthly cost, less than a dollar per day. Learn more about this essential benefit, or sign up today!

Understanding Quitclaim Deeds

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Removing someone from a deed is a legal process that generally requires the person's permission; however, there are certain situations in which you can remove someone from a deed without their consent. It is very important to consult with an attorney when pursuing a quitclaim deed, whether you have that person's authorization to do so or not. Our experienced, dedicated network of attorneys can provide legal advice and assistance for as little as a dollar per day. Learn more about all the benefits of membership in our Legal Protection Subscription Plans and read on for more information about removing someone from a deed.

What is A Quitclaim Deed?

A quitclaim deed removes someone's name from a deed as an owner of a property. To get a quitclaim deed, you will need the property information from the current deed. You can usually do this by contacting the county clerk where the property is located and conducting a title search. From here you can confirm that the person in question is, indeed, named on the deed. In some states, you'll also need a completed quitclaim deed form that includes the parcel number and legal description of the property. This form must be signed and notarized. If the form is not notarized, it is not valid.

You will submit the completed form to the proper authority in accordance with the state laws where the property is located. Some states charge a fee for this. Make sure to retain a copy for your records.

There are many reasons that you might want to remove a person from a deed, including:

Divorce - One of the most common reasons people seek a quitclaim to a deed is the dissolution of marriage. A quitclaim deed is a document that states your right to transfer a property; however it doesn't guarantee that someone else doesn't also have a claim to it. Quitclaim deeds aren't used to split property or the appreciation of it, and it doesn’t remove someone from mortgage liability. They are only used to convey ownership of a property to another partner.

Death - If a joint owner of a property has passed away, you may be able to transfer the property from the deceased's name to yours by submitting some paperwork to the appropriate authorities, in some states. These documents include a death certificate, a notarized affidavit, and a new deed that is also notarized.

Inheritance - Inheriting or co-inheriting a property can mean disagreements regarding the sale of the property if some of the co-owners don't wish to sell. One legal avenue is a partition action, in which the court can order the property to be sold and the proceeds divided among the co-owners, or the property itself can be divided among the co-owners. Because this is a legal court action, this can take time and be costly.

If you need advice or assistance regarding transferring ownership of property through a quitclaim deed or another legal method, your attorney through our Legal Protection Subscription Plans for Families & Individuals may be right for you. Our network of experienced, dedicated attorneys are available 24/7 through our app to answer any legal questions you may have, all for one low, monthly fee of $29.95. Learn more about all the benefits of membership or sign up today!

Tips To Protect Yourself From Auto Theft

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There has been a dramatic uptick in auto thefts across the country recently, and, while automakers are planning roll outs this fall of security kits to reduce the risk, there are a few additional things you can do to prevent being the victim of car theft. Here are a few tips to protect your car:

Lock It Up

It might seem like it should go without saying, but a basic defense system is to make sure that your car is locked whenever you leave it. Locking your valuables in the trunk or center console and away from prying eyes and then locking your car will make your vehicle less desirable to thieves looking to make a quick buck on online sales sites or the pawn shop with your belongings.

Take Valuable Items With You

Items that can be pawned or sold make cars a target for thieves, so make sure that your valuables are hidden from view in the trunk, console, glove box, or under the seat before you leave and lock your car, or take them with you when you leave your car.

Choose A Well-Lit Parking Spot

If it is at all possible, try to choose a parking spot that is well lit and in full view of the public. Thieves don't want to draw attention to themselves or be seen, so they are more likely to choose a target that is in a darker area and away from view of the public. Even better, choose a spot that has security cameras.

Alarm System

Though audible alarms systems have been around for a long time, experts still say that they are one of the best deterrents for preventing car theft. If your car didn't come with one, consider having one installed that makes a loud noise if your car is broken in to.

Never Leave Your Key Fob Behind

If your car has a push-button or remote starter, make sure you always take your key fob with you. Never leave it in the car.

Consider An Immobilizer System

An immobilizer is a kind of anti-theft technology using computer chips in the car that recognize a certain coded key. This prevents your car from being hot wired.

Tracking

A more high-tech solution is a tracking system - also sometimes called a Vehicle Recovery System or VRS - and it uses GPS technology to track the movements of an object, such as your vehicle. Police may be able to find the thief quicker with this information if your car does get stolen.

Your attorney through our Legal Protection Plans for Individuals and Families can give you more information about auto safety and theft, and give you advice about what to do if your car is broken in to or stolen, all for one low, monthly price! Learn more about all the benefits of membership or sign up today!

How To Write A Small Business Operating Agreement

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An operating agreement is an important document that details how your business is to be run and managed, clearly stating the rules and regulations by which your business will be run. It includes the rights of partners, outside contractors, and more. While writing an operating agreement should be fairly straightforward, there are a few items that should be included that will make your business operate more smoothly. If you need help drafting an operating agreement, our small business consulting services could be right for you. Set up an appointment today to talk about your small business goals and read on for a few tips about writing an Operations Agreement.

Ownership Parameters

If your business has partners or a board, your Operating Agreement should include the names and titles of everyone involved, as well as each person's ownership percentages. In order to properly determine benefits, responsibilities, profits, losses, liabilities, and assets, this information will be essential, as these aspects are formulated using each member's ownership percentage. It will be important to get all co-owners, members, and partners to work together to create your Operating Agreement so everyone is up-to-date and is properly compensated.

Rights & Responsibilities

The rights and responsibilities of each member should be outlined clearly, including voting rights, requirements of each role within the company, salaries, and duties of each role. This section clearly details each members' role in the company. It is also where determinations are made regarding how much sway each member has in decision making that impacts the company, its members, and other stake holders.

Membership Rules

Members of your board or partners may eventually want to move on to other projects, so it is important to outline how people can leave your membership and the process for joining, as well. Having a detailed procedure in place for onboarding or offboarding members may not even seem like something that could happen right now, but the future is unknown and preparation is key to smooth transitions.

Dissolution

While it's never fun to think about the end - especially when things are just beginning - not having a plan for dissolution is a recipe for disaster. A business can close for any number of reasons, and not having a plan for dissolving the company can make for stressful situations with other members. Like other parts of your Operating Agreement, this section will detail member rights, roles, and responsibilities, but only in reference to what is to be done at the closing of the company. This section will detail who is responsible for what, how debts and assets are to be sold or distributed, and may even restrict members from opening a similar business for a certain amount of time.

Severability

This section details the protections of the agreement if any part of the agreement turns out to be in violation of a law in your state or federally. This ensures that the aspects of the agreement that are not in conflict with the law are still enforceable.

If you need help crafting an operating agreement, we are here to help! Schedule an appointment today with our business consultants to talk about your business and what you might need from an operating agreement, as well as any other questions you might have about your business.

The Basics of Prenuptial Agreements

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Statistics say that, in 2020, nearly half of all marriages ended in divorce, and while this is a fact that most people don't want to think about when they're planning their weddings, the fact is, having legal documents in place before you say "I do" can save you both headaches in the future. Financial experts recommend couples create a prenuptial agreement - also called a prenup - before walking down the aisle.

A prenup is a legally enforceable contract entered into by two people before they are legally married, and it lists each person's assets, liabilities, and debts, and to whom each of these belong before marriage, and what happens to these if the couple divorces.

Prenuptial agreements typically cost anywhere from $1,000 to $10,000. The price varies widely due to the number of assets and debts, the complexity of the agreement due to assets and debts, and where the couple resides, as laws vary state-to-state.

A prenuptial agreement acts as financial protection for you pre-marital assets, children, and families, as it predetermines what happens in a divorce. The agreement can detail complex situations such as student debt incurred for a profession that supports both spouses; in this scenario, should the debt also be shared? Assets and debts incurred during the marriage can also be outlined. While these are typically shared by both spouses, the agreement can specify certain assets or debts that will be kept separate; an example could be spouse who starts a business with their own capital from before the marriage - the business profits or debts can be kept separate from the marital assets and liabilities.

The prenup can also detail how debt will be allocated during a divorce, which can streamline the proceedings. Additionally, the prenup can determine how children from a previous relationship will be cared for in the event of divorce, including inheritances. If a spouse shares business dealings with extended family, these assets can also be included in the prenup to ensure that these properties stay with the family.

A prenup can also detail responsibilities within the marriage, such as who pays for specific expenses, who maintains and monitors bank accounts and investments, whether both spouses must be a party to any agreements or contracts entered into during the marriage, and who is responsible for tax returns.

Ultimately, getting a prenuptial agreement isn't necessary, but, if the worst should happen, it can save you time, effort, money, and stress in divorce court. The dissolution of a marriage without the arguments over assets, debt, the care of minor children, inheritances, and more can protect you from additional tension during an already stressful situation. Your attorney through our Legal Protection Subscription Plans for Individuals and Families can give you advice about any prenuptial agreements you might require, and all for no additional fee. Don't let the courts decide what's best for you. Sign up today!

Traveler's Rights

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As people begin traveling again, you may find that airports are crowded, flights are cancelled, and that there are increased delays, and, while airlines and other travel-related businesses may give you a refund or voucher for your inconvenience, that isn't always the case. A smooth trip begins with knowing your rights as a traveler and consumer, and knowing what to do if your trip is delayed or cancelled. How do you know if you are owed compensation? What rights do you have as a traveler and consumer? Our network of dedicated attorneys in our network of law firms across North America and the UK can advise you on your specific situation at no additional cost to members of our Legal Protection Plans for Individuals & Families. In the meantime, here are a few traveling tips to protect your rights:

Your Options

When a flight is cancelled, sometimes, the airline will offer a refund or a different flight. Understanding the legal language used in these offers is important, because they are often confusing and unclear. If you are unsure what the language the airline has used in your offer means, you can ask the customer service representatives or ticket counter staff to clarify what it means for your situation. Some questions that might be pertinent to your situation include: Is the airline covering hotel costs associated with this delay?" and "What kind of compensation is the airline offering?"

Communication

If there are to be long delays, the airline should be communicating with you and giving you the most up-to-date information available. Alternate transportation should also be provided.

Terms, Rules, & Regulations

Airlines often have their own terms, conditions, rules, and regulations, and they are not required by law to give you refunds when flights are delayed or cancelled. However, most airlines have policies regarding these circumstances, and they should be publicly available. Make sure to read through what these stipulations are to determine if you are entitled to a refund or other compensation. Ask questions to make sure you understand all your options.

Typical Refund Eligibility

Don't assume you'll get a refund if your flight is cancelled or delayed. Because some things are out of the airlines' controls, they are not required to refund you, but most airlines have some considerations in their policies, including the length of the delay and what caused it. If your flight is significantly delayed, your cost may be refunded, but you should keep in mind that the U.S. Department of Transportation has not defined what qualifies as a "significant delay," so airlines typically make these considerations on a case-by-case basis. When flights are cancelled, airlines typically re-book your flight at no cost to you, many times, on the next flight out if there are enough available seats. If you decide to cancel your trip due to the delay, you are entitled to a refund for the travel, bag fees, and anything else you paid the airline for. When delays and cancellations are out of the airline's control, the Department of Transportation says that compensation is required only when passengers are removed from a flight due to overbooking. Some examples of things that are deemed out of control of the airline are: weather, air traffic control issues, political unrest, security problems, and terrorism. If the cause of the delay or cancellation is due to something under control of the airline, they may offer you a refund or other compensation. These reasons are things such as scheduling or labor strikes.

If your flight is delayed or cancelled, remain calm and make note of details. Take screenshots of communications between the airline and yourself and make note of the amount of time you wait. Ask questions and get clarifications before accepting vouchers, and if you have questions, ask your attorney. Our network of experienced, dedicated lawyers are available 24/7 through our app, so you can have your attorney look through the language of any offer you receive before you accept it. This is just one of the hundreds of benefits of having an attorney in your pocket through our Legal Protection Subscription Plans for Individuals & Families. Don't wait until you need them: sign up today!

Tips for Successful Co-Parenting

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A main concern for divorced or separated parents is creating a co-parenting schedule that works year 'round, through school schedules, breaks in the school year, special events, holidays, birthdays, vacations, and more. A good co-parenting schedule can alleviate the stress and tension of navigating schedules with careful planning and organizing, as well as some compromise along the way. If you need help creating a co-parenting schedule that works for you and your child's other parent as well as your children, our network of dedicated, experienced family law attorneys can help you prepare for meetings to create a co-parenting schedule that protects your rights, outlines responsibilities of all involved, and helps you plan and organize a co-parenting plan. Learn more about all the benefits of becoming a member of our Legal Protection Plans for Individuals and Families, and read on for some tips for creating a co-parenting plan that will work for you.

Communication Is Key

Working together with your child's other parent will be crucial to creating a co-parenting plan that works for everyone. Start the discussions about co-parenting early in the process, making lists of important yearly dates for each of you, vacation times if you know them, how to handle school breaks, and more. Consider creating a shared calendar where events and other important happenings can be noted, as well as any other important scheduling (such as school drop off and pick up).

Respect & Compassion

Agreeing not to speak poorly of the other parent and show respect - especially in front of your children - is extremely important to co-parenting your child. Be willing to compromise, show compassion, and be understanding when things don't go as planned. Every decision you make around your child will impact them.

Be Willing To Revisit The Co-Parenting Plan

Situations change and kids grow up, and, as those things happen - and they will! - be willing to come back to the negotiating table and make changes to the co-parenting plan that will make everyone's lives easier. Be willing to adapt to your child's changing schedules, extra curricular activities, interests, and hobbies, as well.

Calendars Are Important Tools

Technology allows us to now have digital calendars that can be shared and edited by anyone in the group, and these are a great way to keep everyone in the loop regarding plans. Making a hard copy to keep in each home isn't a bad idea, either, particularly if you or your family isn't tech savvy.

Agree On House Rules

Children need consistency, and one of the most important areas where things need to be consistent is house rules. These rules can run the gamut from when it is appropriate to watch TV or browse the Internet, time limits on video games and related activities, how and when homework needs to be done, and more. Being lenient with the rules can cause stress in the children and be problematic in both households, as one parent may be seen as "more strict" than the other if the rules aren't enforced consistently in both homes.

Big Picture

In the end, the most important thing is to make your time with your children as stress-free as possible so that you can make treasured memories with your children while you're together instead of focusing on annoyances, slights, or irritations from the other parent, which only causes resentment and isn't productive. Try to make your time with your child about spending time with them first and foremost; the time goes by too quickly!

If you need advice or assistance with creating a co-parenting plan, custody issues, visitation, or child support, the family law attorneys in our network of law firms across the US and Canada can help! Getting advice from a legal professional whenever you're dealing with issues surrounding your children is of the utmost importance, and you can get advice tailored to your specific situation for no additional fee when you become a member of our Legal protection Plans for Individuals & Families.

Leasing To Multiple Tenants

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It's recently become popular for landlords to rent out single family homes to multiple tenants, particularly in college towns or places where there is a high cost of living. It's a win-win situation: landlords get a significantly higher income than they would with just a single renter and tenants save money, too. But with the addition of each tenant, the likelihood of issues increases, too. From noise complaints to property damage, the problems each renter adds can create stress, as well. If you need help setting up a rental agreement, lease contracts, or any other landlord/tenant issue, the experienced, dedicated attorneys in our network of member law firms across the country can help you with no additional fee to members of our Legal Subscription Plans. The add-on benefits from our Home-Based Business Owner's coverage and our Real Estate, Renters, & Landlord Coverage add-on can give you access to legal advice any time. In the meantime, here are a few tips for renting to multiple tenants.

Roommate Agreement

Strongly encouraging tenants to sign on to a roommate agreement can eliminate disagreements before they even start. A roommate agreement should detail rules, responsibilities, and guidelines for the shared home, including guests, utilities and bill sharing, noise, deposits, pets, parking, room allocation, common household items, food, cleaning, landscaping, and more. Roommate agreements aren't legally binding, but as the landlord, you can help enforce it.

The Actions Of One Affects Everyone

Each tenant should be made aware before moving in that the actions of one tenant could affect all the renters, as landlords can cancel lease agreements for all tenants if one tenant violates clause in the lease. This is not intended to create a hostile atmosphere with your tenants, but should be used to drive home the idea that the tenants should work together to uphold the terms of the lease.

Lease Language

A joint and several liability clause in your lease is very important. This means that each person who signs the lease is responsible for rent, and if one tenant can't pay, the other tenants will not be allowed to pay on their behalf. How the rental amount is divided is up to the tenants.

Subletting

Prohibiting subletting and AirBnBs is very important in today's fast paced world where people's lives change very quickly and often without warning. People move in with significant others or must leave town for work and they often want to solve the problem of owing rent in two places by subletting. Unfortunately, the sublettors will not be on your lease agreement, are not legally liable for the rent or property damage, and are not subject to any other terms of your lease. Plus, it can take months to evict sublettors in certain states where they may have squatters' rights.

Security Deposits

Dividing the return of a security deposit is bad idea as it can get messy quickly. If you have some renters that want to move out at the end of a lease but some that want to renew the lease, returning the security deposit can be a nightmare if it is not explicitly stated that the security deposit is refunded when all parties to the original lease move out. The same advice goes for property damage, as it can be a disaster to decide how the money should be divided. Waiting until all parties to the original lease move out to return deposits will save you headaches in the long run and, when all the parties have vacated the premises, you can leave it to the tenants to decide how the security deposit refund is divided.

Tenant Screening

If a tenant moves away, the other tenants typically try to find someone to replace that tenant right away, but no matter who it is coming in to rent your property, make sure to do a thorough background and financial check.

Renters' Insurance

While you can't require tenants to procure renters' insurance, you can certainly recommend that they get some, for their own peace of mind. Personal property can go missing or be damaged just as easily as the property itself.

Representatives

Getting your tenants to appoint a representative from among the group can alleviate miscommunication and create a consistent point-of-contact.

Make Sure Your Lawyer Reviews the Lease Agreement

The lease agreement is a complex legal document that only gets more complex as more tenants are added. Having your attorney look over your lease agreement - or, better yet, helping you draft it - can protect you, your property, and your rights before the first tenant signs on the dotted line.

Get on-demand help with your rental business from day one when you become a member of our Legal Subscription Plans with our Real Estate, Renters, & Landlord Coverage add-on and rest easy knowing that your legal bases are covered, no matter what happens. Learn more about our Legal Protection Subscription Plans for Individuals & Families, our Home-Based Business Coverage, and our Real Estate, Renters, & Landlord Coverage add-on or sign up today!

Successfully Working With A Contractor

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Whether you're planning a renovation or a home repair, hiring the right contractor is extremely important. It's critical to know as much as possible about the company you're hiring to work on your house or project, getting multiple bids, preventing miscommunication, understanding any contracts, and knowing what to do if there is a dispute. Our network of attorneys through our Legal Protection Subscription Plans for Individuals & Families can help you through the entire process of working with a contractor, including going over bids, contracts, and helping you through the legal process if there should be a dispute. Learn more about all the benefits of membership and read on for a few tips on working with contractors.

The Contract

It is essential that you have a contract when hiring a contractor before work begins on your home. Get everything in writing, and make sure that your contract covers:

• A complete and thorough description of the job and the work to be done

• Pricing for the job and each part of the job

• How and when payments are to be made

• Any guarantees or warranties offered by the builder

• The dates work is to begin and end

• Signature of both parties

• Payment

As mentioned above, an important item to include in the contract is a payment schedule. An example of this might work something like: A down payment before work begins, another payment at the halfway point in the project, and a final payment at the completion of the job. Another payment schedule might be weekly payments based on work completed to date. Having a payment schedule can ensure that the work is getting completed in a timely and correct fashion.

The Right to Cancel

The FTC and some local laws allow for you to cancel work if you need to. An attorney well versed in the laws of your locality will be able to give you detailed and accurate advice regarding your rights in this situation.

Document The Work

Take pictures, keep change orders, bills, and invoices. These items will be useful to make sure the project stays on track and on time. Make sure everything has a date on it and keep your documentation in a safe place and altogether.

What If There's A Dispute

It's a sad fact that things sometimes don't work out, and if you are unhappy with the work or the work wasn't completed and the contractor won't return your calls, an attorney will be able to walk you through the legal aspects, but here are a few suggestions of things to try:

Contact Them

Be respectful, as there may have simply been a miscommunication. If they do not treat you with respect, make sure to document the call and what was said while it is fresh in your mind. If they work for a company, contact them and explain the situation.

Send a Formal Letter

Writing a formal demand letter is often enough to get the contractor back out to finish the work. If you are not comfortable writing such a letter or don't know what to say, our network of lawyers will be able to draft and send a letter on your behalf at no additional fee. Send the registered letter through the postal service to ensure delivery.

File Complaints

The Better Business Bureau, the Contractor Recovery Fund, Homeowners' Recovery Fund, and state and local agencies can help you handle a contractor who has disappeared and/or is not returning your calls.

Get Legal Advice

Our network of dedicated, experienced attorneys can write letters on your behalf, give you legal advice, look over contracts, and protect your rights, all for one low, monthly fee.

If You're A Contractor:

Sometimes, contractors who do good work and complete a job still come across clients who say they're unhappy and refuse to pay. What can contractors do if this happens to them?

Document everything from Day One on the job.

Take photos and videos before you start work, at the end of each work day, and at the end of a job. This gives you a dated timeline of the work.

File A Lien

File what is known as a Mechanic's Lien on the property. This is a guarantee of payment for contractors, so that, when a contractor performs the work and the client refuses to pay, the contractor can file a lien and demand payment before the lien is removed.

File A Breach of Contract

When the terms of the contract are met and the customer still refuses to pay, this is a breach of contract and contractors can then take the client to court for failing to uphold the terms of the agreement.

Whether you're a homeowner or a contractor, having a lawyer in your back pocket (literally, if you use our app!), protecting your rights, your property, and your livelihood is your number one priority. With our Legal Protection Subscription plans for Individuals & Families and for Small Businesses, you can protect your rights, your property, and your work for just pennies per day!

Buying An LLC

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If you're interested in owning a business but aren't interested in building one from scratch, you may want to know more about buying an existing business. There are many aspects involved in buying a company – including doing research into companies you're considering, calculating what you'd be willing to pay for the business, planning funding the purchase, creating written purchase agreements – but one of the first questions you may want to ask is, what should I know before I buy an LLC? Our business consulting services and Legal Protection Subscription Plans for Small Businesses will be able to help you with the process, giving you advice on the legal aspects of your purchase while our business consulting services help you plan how to run your new company. Read on for some basics on the idea of purchasing an LLC.

Research

Finding an LLC that you are interested in purchasing may take some research, including networking with family, friends, and others about what businesses might be for sale, as business owners don't always announce that they're looking for a buyer. Conferences and tradeshows can be another place to learn about opportunities to purchase existing businesses. Your local Chamber of Commerce is another avenue to find this information.

Explore Opportunities

Once you have identified businesses that are for sale or are open to the idea, it's time to learn everything you can about the business. Find out about any issues the business may be having, look over their books, contracts, and other documentation to help you make your decision. The business will also want to learn more about you, such as proof that you'll be able to financially make the purchase. Both parties will likely want a Non Disclosure Agreement in place.

Review

Once you have all the information, make sure to give it a thorough review, sifting through banking information, credits lines and loans, taxes, any other partnerships that may exist, employment records, sales records, and more. Knowing about the business' contracts and responsibilities beforehand will give you a better picture of how the business is run day-to-day than the bottom line profit-loss statements will.

Term Sheet

Once you have made your decision on which business to buy, official negotiations begin. Compose the terms of the purchase agreement in broad strokes - it will become more detailed later - that will help you with your purchase plan and commitments from the seller and from you. As time goes on and negotiations continue, this document will become more detailed. An added advantage is that everyone involved will have the same information.

Purchase Agreement

Finalizing the deal happens with all parties sign the purchase agreement, a legally binding document that details the purchase, including the price, the terms of the agreement, what all parties are agreeing to, and any other details that impact the business, the sale, or anyone involved in the business. the document is official once everyone signs it.

Business Ownership Information

Changing over the business ownership information ensures that the business officially reflects that you are the owner. Since state laws differ regarding notification of a change in ownership, you will need to check with your state government, the IRS, and any other entities or regulatory bodies to make sure that they have updated records of the change in ownership.

While you may not need a lawyer to buy an LLC, it can make the process less stressful and may make it faster. If you have any questions regarding your purchase, with our Legal Subscription Plans for Small Businesses are available 24/7 through our app to answer any questions you may have, give you advice, and review documents, contracts, and more, all for one low monthly fee. Once you've purchased your new business, our experienced small business attorneys can help you with dozens of aspects of your new business, including debt collection, contract and document review, employment concerns, and much more! Additionally, our Small Business Consultations can help you develop a plan to grow your new business, learn marketing techniques, and learn new skills. Sign up for our Legal Protection Subscription Plans for Small Businesses today or schedule a meeting with our business consultants!

Do You Need A Will?

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We're finishing off our series on estate planning for National Make A Will Month with the big question: do you need a will? No one likes thinking or talking about death and dying, but your estate planning documents are some of the most important legal documents you will ever need, and you shouldn't wait to create one. Your Last Will & Testament not only outlines your wishes for the distribution of your property and assets, but it also details your wishes regarding the care of any minor children you may have, your wishes for your health care should you become unable to voice those decisions yourself, and even what happens to your pets after you pass away.

Many people think that Wills are just for wealthy people and that regular folks don't need a Will, but, in actuality, every person over the age of 18 needs a Will, regardless of how much wealth they have. If you have questions about your estate planning, or would like to get your Last Will & Testament created at no additional fee, our Legal Protection Subscription Plans may be right for you. Learn more about all the benefits of becoming a member, get details about getting your free Last Will & Testament when you become a member, and read on for more information about Wills and Estate Planning and why you should consider them now.

Creating a Will as soon as possible, regardless of your finances or age, ensures that your children, pets, property, money, and other assets are cared for in the manner you wish for them. If you pass away without a Will, your estate is considered "intestate," which means that the courts in your state will decide how your assets, property, and money is divided up without your input. If you have no heirs, your assets and property could go to the state. If you have children, the courts will decide how they are cared for; the same goes for pets. Having a Will means that you get to choose how your children will be cared for, who will care for your pets, and how your property and assets are distributed when the time comes.

Consider drafting a Living Will or Advanced Directive at the same time so that your wishes for your health care are known if you should become incapacitated or otherwise can't voice those decisions to health care providers.

A Will also minimizes family conflicts and alleviates stress at a difficult time. Your Will makes certain that your wishes are carried out legally and are enforceable in the state where you live.

Besides that fact that many people don't like thinking about passing away, people also avoid taking action when it comes to estate planning because they fear it will be difficult or confusing. Members of our Legal Protection Plans get a Last Will & Testament drafted by experienced, dedicated estate planning lawyers in our network of law firms across the country at no additional fee, making sure that their estate planning documents are complete, accurate, and most importantly, legally enforceable in your state courts. Getting your estate planning documents created by our attorneys can happen in as little as five business days and all you need to do is answer a few simple questions about your estate, property, assets, and beneficiaries. You can even do this in the app and your attorney will contact you in a day or so for more details if needed. You can update your Will whenever your situation changes, too, as long as you're a member. Learn more about our Legal protection Subscription Plans for Individuals & Families, or sign up today!

Estate Account Basics

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If you are named as the executor of a loved one's estate, one item that you will want to know more about is what is known as an Estate Account. As its name might suggest, an Estate Account is a bank account that is set up temporarily in the executor's name, and it is used to take care of financial aspects of an estate's funds, expenses, taxes, debts, costs related to probate, and, finally, to distribute funds to named beneficiaries of an estate. There are many aspects of estate planning where you may find legal advice helpful, from setting up and creating estate planning documents to questions regarding responsibilities as an executor of an estate, and you can get all your legal questions answered for one low, monthly fee of $29.95 with our Legal Subscription Plans for Individuals & Families, and, as an added bonus, our members get estate planning documents created at no additional fee.

How to Create An Estate Account

Estate accounts make accounting for estate funds easy, as you will be able to have records to track where funds are going and how they are being used in case there are ever any questions. This reduces the chance of misused funds, particularly in cases where there is a shared account. Keeping estate funds separate from personal funds also adds a layer of protection as distribution of the estate commences, as well as making taxes easier. As an executor of an estate, you'll start by gathering documents, including the death certificate, a copy of the will if one exists, and any state-specific documents that you might need, as laws and rules vary state-to-state.

Probate is a legal process by which assets from an estate are transferred to beneficiaries as laid out in the Will. If there is no Will, there will probably be additional steps to become the executor of the estate. At this point, the court will want to see the death certificate and a copy of the Will if there is one.

Setting up an estate account will require a tax ID number specifically for the estate account, and you can apply for this online at the IRS web site. This simplifies filing the taxes for the estate to the IRS, and it is the same as getting an employer ID number for taxes. The bank will need this EIN to open the account for the estate, so be sure to bring proof of this number with you to the bank when you open the account. It's also a good idea to contact the bank beforehand to ascertain if the bank will need any further documentation in order to open the account and to bring that with you, too.

Estate accounts don't cost anything extra, and they are virtually the same process to open as any other bank account. Estate accounts are typically just standard checking accounts, but you may need a few different types of accounts, depending on how complex the estate is.

Once the account is open, you'll be able to make deposits, payments, and distribute the estate according to the Will. Once this process is complete, it is likely that you won't need the account, and you should be able to work with the bank to close it when the time comes. The documentation needed to close an estate account can vary from bank-to-bank and state-to-state, so it is best to check beforehand on what documentation you will need once the terms of the Will are satisfied.

Estate management can be confusing, and that's why having access to legal advice any time a legal question arises is so convenient. Our Legal Protection Subscription Plans give you access to experienced, dedicated, estate planning attorneys 24/7 through our app or via telephone at an affordable price. Learn more about all the benefits of membership or sign up today!

Can A Will Be Changed With A Power of Attorney?

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A Power of Attorney is an important legal document that allows someone of your choosing to make decisions on your behalf if you should ever become unable to do so yourself. The type of decisions can be financial, health care related, regarding your business affairs, and more. But could someone with power of Attorney change your will? If you need legal advice regarding your estate planning or wish to have your estate planning documents - including power of attorney, living will, last will and testament, or a trust - created for you, members of our Legal Protection Subscription Plans for Individuals & Families can get these important documents created at no additional fee. Learn more about this benefit and read on for a brief overview of Power of Attorney.

When you are creating your estate planning documents, you have the option of creating a Power of Attorney. This is a document that gives someone you choose the authority to make decisions for you if you should become incapacitated or otherwise unable to make those decisions yourself. The person you choose is known as your "agent" or "attorney-in-fact," and you can give this person as much or as little power as you choose. You can give them authority over just your finances or just medical decisions, or both.

A Power of Attorney can be either "durable" or "non-durable," and the difference comes down to when your agent has power of attorney. A durable POA stays in effect if you become incapacitated while a non-durable POA is only valid while you're competent. A "Springing" power of attorney only becomes valid upon your inability to make decisions for yourself, for example, if you are incapacitated or gravely ill.

Your will is a very important document, as it makes your wishes known before you are sick or pass away, and directs what happens to your assets after you die. A Living Will - also called an Advanced Directive - allows you to make decisions about your end-of-life care in advance, in case you are unable to do so later.

You need a will created to take care of family, children, loved ones, pets, and assets when you pass away, and a Power of Attorney is an important position that gives someone power to make decisions for you while you are still alive, whereas a will only becomes valid after you die.

One question people often have is whether or not a person with power of Attorney can make changes to a will, and the short answer is no. However, a person with Power of Attorney can still affect an Estate plan, in that someone with financial Power of Attorney will have the ability to make financial decisions, such as managing bank accounts, paying bills, managing investments, and attending to debts.

Importantly, Power of Attorney is revocable, which means that you can cancel or change it at any time, and you should consider updating your Power of Attorney on a regular basis so that it reflects your current wishes and/or circumstances. Examples might be if your marital status changes or the person you've appointed as your agent passes away or moves far away.

Getting advice from an experienced, qualified estate planning attorney is always a great idea when you're thinking about any Power of Attorney, as you will be better able to understand the law, protect your rights, and make sure that all your documents are in order. An estate planning attorney can help you with any questions you might have about your Power of Attorney as well as help you prepare and create your comprehensive estate plan that will address your unique situation and goals. Learn more about getting your will completed at no additional charge when you're a member of our Legal Protection Subscription Plans, or sign up today!

The Basics About Trusts

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One of the most important estate planning decisions that you'll make is whether or not to set up a Trust. With a Trust, you can protect your assets and ensure that your loved ones are taken care of, and, while most people know the benefits of a Trust, the process of setting one up is somewhat less well-known. Our network of estate planning attorneys available to you through our Legal Protection Subscription Plans for Individuals & Families can give you advice based on your specific situation, including setting up a Trust or getting your estate planning documents created at no additional charge. Learn more about these benefits of membership, and read on for a few tips on Trusts.

A Trust is an arrangement in which someone manages assets or property for a beneficiary. This person is known as a Trustee, and has a legal obligation to adhere to the terms of the Trust and to manage it according to those terms, as set by the settlor, or the person who creates the trust and puts property into it. Those who will benefit from the Trust are called beneficiaries.

Trusts generally fall into one of two categories: Living Trusts and Testamentary Trusts. As their names might suggest, the main difference between the two is the moment of creation. A Living Trust is created while the settlor is still living, and the terms of this document can be changed over time. Meanwhile, a Testamentary Trust is created upon the settlor's passing and the terms cannot be changed. Trustees of a Trust are appointed in the Will, and will have a legal duty to carry out your wishes exactly.

One of the first questions people ask is how much it costs to set up a Trust, and the answer is, it varies. Depending on the type of Trust you want to create, what assets and properties are going into the Trust, and whether or not you choose to use an attorney or another kind of professional to assist with the process. A simple estate going into a Living Trust that you set up yourself usually costs less than $500. A more complex estate should usually be handled by a legal professional, and depending on how complex the estate is, hiring someone to handle the creation of a complex Trust can be a few hundred to a few thousand dollars. Generally, however, setting up a Trust is not terribly expensive, and it is usually worth the money if your estate is complex or if you are unsure about any part of the process.

Though you are not required to use legal representation to establish a Trust, as mentioned above, if you are unsure about an aspect of the process, it may be best to seek out legal counsel. A lawyer can advise you based on your specific situation and help you choose what type of Trust is right for you and make sure that the necessary paperwork is prepared and handled correctly.

If you have questions about whether a Trust is right for you, our network of experienced, dedicated estate planning attorneys can guide you through the entire process of setting up your estate planning documents, including a Last Will and Testament, Advanced Directives, Living Wills, and give advice about Trusts and other estate planning essentials, critical to your specific situation, all for no additional fee for our members. Learn more about the benefits of being a member of our Legal Protection Subscription Plans and the Estate Planning Benefits, or sign up today!

The Rights of Trust Beneficiaries

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The beneficiary of a Trust has important rights and responsibilities that the Trust  should spell out clearly. If you are the beneficiary of a Trust, you should understand completely what the process is in estate planning. Many beneficiaries of Trusts feel as if they are beholden to the whims of a Trustee or executor, but the type of Trust  makes a difference as to what you may be entitled to and what your rights are. With your membership in our Legal Protection Plans for Individuals & Families, you can get advice from estate planning attorneys when you are the beneficiary of a Trust, and you can also prepare your own estate planning documents at no additional charge. Learn more about this benefit and read on for a brief overview of a few of your rights as a beneficiary.

Beneficiaries Get A Copy of the Trust or Will

Current and remainder beneficiaries have a right to receive a copy of the Trust. This document gives you information about the Trust and how it is managed and administered so that you can enforce your rights. Information generally included in a Trust includes information about assets held in the Trustee's name, contact information for all parties named in the Trust, bank account information, and Real Estate information. Familiarize yourself with the terms and details of the Trust so you know how much you should receive and when those payments are to be made.

How and When Distributions Are Made

Knowing how to claim your inheritance is important, and you are entitled to timely payment distributions as outlined in the Trust. It is also to be aware of any tax obligations that may arise from your Trust payments.

You Have A Right To An Accounting

An accounting of a Trust is a detailed report containing information regarding liabilities, distributions, income, and expenses of the trust in a certain period of time. The terms of your Trust may vary, but a yearly accounting is typical. Current beneficiaries can also request a special report containing information such as receipts, disbursements, income, bank statements, liabilities, and assets. The yearly report will contain similar information.

You Can Petition The Court To Remove A Trustee

Current beneficiaries of a Trust can ask the court to remove a Trustee if it is believed that the Trustee is not acting in the best interests of the beneficiaries. Some situations - especially involving minor children or conservatorships, when a guardian is involved - can cause disagreements and you may want legal representation in these cases.

Our network of experienced, dedicated estate planning attorneys are always available to answer your questions and give advice regarding Trusts, Wills, and other estate planning documents, and you can get your estate planning documents prepared at no additional cost when you're a member of our Legal Protection Subscription Plans for Individuals & Families. Learn more about our Legal Protection Plans, the estate planning benefits, or sign up today!

10 Legal Items For Your Small Business Website

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Whether you've had a business web site for a while or you're just starting out, industry and regulatory compliance is often one area of business web sites that gets overlooked. Mistakes can be costly when it comes to complying with laws regarding what can - and cannot - be said or done on a business web site. Improving user-friendliness, visibility, and marketing reach are all important areas of building a business web site, but your site could be violating rules  and regulations regarding plagiarism, ownership, intellectual property, and privacy without you even knowing it. Our network of small business attorneys through our Legal Protection Plans for Small Businesses can help you with the details of your web site's regulatory requirements for your specific situation, industry, and locale, but here are a few general tips:

Domain Name

Most people register their domain names on term contracts that last from one year to a maximum of 10 years, but you can also purchase a domain name outright.  Make sure that you register or buy your domain name yourself. If this is done by another party, you are essentially letting another person control your domain name, and they can sell it or hold on to it if there is a dispute.

Site Hosting

The Internet is full of sites that let people build their own web sites, DIY-style, and these are usually hosted by the company where the site is built. There are also sites that sell you hosting separately from the coding and design aspects of your site. It is important to read through any agreements before you enter into them to make certain that you will own your design and content. Make sure that you can move your site to another hosting platform if you choose; nearly all the DIY sites own the design and you will have to start over if you decide to move your site.

Trademarks

It is possible to buy a domain name that infringes on someone else's trademark. For example, you may be able to buy the domain nike.com, but using that domain may infringe on copyrights and trademarks. This particular example is avoidable, but it is still important to do your due diligence and make sure that intellectual property laws aren't broken, even unintentionally. Conversely, if you think someone else is infringing on your trademarks or copyrights, you will want to speak to a trademark attorney right away.

Privacy & Security

One of the most important things that a small business web site needs to consider is how to handle customer data, privacy, and security. Ensuring that your site meets security standards, payment processing regulations, and safe handling of customer information is one of the first things you should do. Make sure that you have a system to handle customer data, and if your site uses cookies to deliver a customized user experience, make sure to have language drafted for your site that spells out your system, process, and protocols for your customers. Reach out to an attorney to get help with the kind of language that you'll need for your site to be legal.

Compliance with FTC Guidelines

In order to limit deceptive advertising that leads to fraud and scams, the FTC has regulations put in place regarding online advertising. You'll want to make sure that you understand these rules and never make false claims, even if you don't mean to do so. Saying something like, "Number One Rated in (BLANK) Industry" can get you fined if you don't have something to back it up, such as an actual award.

ADA Compliance

There have been lawsuits recently regarding the inaccessibility of web sites under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). While small businesses with fewer than 15 employees aren't required to adhere with ADA guidelines, it makes business sense to do so from the start so that your products and services are available to everyone.

Plagiarism

You will want to make sure that your content is fresh and original for a number of reasons, including ranking high in search engines. There are plagiarism checkers available for you to use to make sure that your content is original and unique. Hiring a copywriter isn't a bad idea, but make sure that you will own the content that is produced for your web site. Make sure to cite sources for any external content you use, as well. Finally, taking your own photographs is best, or you can purchase the rights to stock photos from a stock photography site.

You will put a lot of work and effort into your business, including your customer or employee-facing web sites, so it is important to get it right the first time with competent legal advice from an experienced attorney. Our Legal Protection Plans for Small Businesses gives you access to just this kind of advice for one low, monthly fee. Learn more about our Small Business Legal Protection Plans or sign your business up today!

Does an LLC Need A DBA?

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Different business structures exist for a reason, and a business owner may choose one or another for various reasons, such as the number of people employed by the company, tax purposes, organizational structure, interstate commerce, and more. Many business owners do decide to add a DBA to their LLC, and there are pros and cons both for adding a DBA and for not doing so. If you are wondering if a DBA is the right choice for your LLC or have any other questions regarding your business structure, our New Small Business Consultation & Filing Package may be right for you. We will discuss your specific situation and help you decide what business structure is right for you and your business as well as perform all the research and help you fill out the paperwork! Learn more about this service and read on for more info about LLCs with DBAs.

DBAs - also sometimes called "tradenames" or "fictitious" names - can sometimes communicate better what your company does in a way that your regular LLC name can't. DBAs can be modified to reflect your industry advertising standards or attract new customers by using a unique name that's totally different from your competitors. From a marketing perspective, adding a DBA to an LLC can be a great idea, particularly if your LLC name is clumsy, hard-to-pronounce, hard-to-spell, generic, or confusing, and you can operate multiple DBAs under a single LLC. The right DBA can help you stand out in a crowded marketplace, perhaps even letting your potential customers know that you offer something that your competition doesn't.

But do you need a DBA for your LLC? The short answer is no, but there are good arguments both for and against adding a DBA to your LLC. There are differences between an LLC and a DBA, for instance, the fees usually vary by state, county, and city, but filing a DBA is almost always less expensive than filing for an LLC, and, while LLCs have to be renewed yearly, DBAs do not.

Some cities require you to publish a notice of DBA in the local paper, and the taxes for DBA are simpler than for an LLC, as you simply report your DBA's income as your own on your personal return. DBAs can also protect your privacy in that an LLC reveals your full, legal name, while a DBA doesn't.

Conversely, a DBA is simply a brand. It does not function as a legal entity or a business structure, and it does not protect your personal assets if your business is sued. Additionally, you don't own a trademark on your DBA name, so any business, even another local one, can operate under the same name as your business which can be confusing for customers, clients, vendors, and even the government. You will also need to file for a DBA in every state where you do business individually, and this adds to your startup costs.

If you are starting a small business, getting a DBA may be right for you if you have several areas or industries that you do business in or have multiple brands to do marketing for, but, ultimately, there are no real business or tax related reasons that make a DBA necessary. If you have more questions or still aren't sure what type of business entity you need to form for your new startup, we may be able to help! Make an appointment to talk about your new small business with our New Small Business Consultation & Filing Package!

CALL OR EMAIL FOR AN APPOINTMENT TODAY!
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debbie@debbieaferguson.com

How To Discover If Someone Has A Will

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It may come as a surprise to learn that many people don't let their loved ones know that they have a will. Having to search for a will in a difficult time can be stressful and overwhelming. With your subscription to our Legal Protection Plans for Individuals & Families, you can get you Estate Planning documents prepared by your attorney at no additional charge, saving you hundreds of dollars over hiring an attorney on your own. Read on for a few tips on discovering if a loved one has a will.

Ask Them About Their Estate Planning

It may seem obvious, but the easiest way is to reach out and ask. If the person is question has already passed, contacting their family, friends, or the executor (the person tasked with distributing the deceased's property) and ask if they know where the will is kept. These conversations can be difficult and uncomfortable, but they are sometimes necessary. The Will must be taken to probate court within a certain time frame, depending on the jurisdiction. The executor of the Will has a duty to contact anyone named in the Will and make the Will's contents known. While many believe that Wills are private, they are public documents.

Do Thorough Research

Wills are generally kept in places that aren't very obvious, so make sure to thoroughly go through files and other papers and documents to see if the Will is filed away. Check boxes and files in places that aren't typical for the storage and organization of paperwork, such as in pantries, boxes in bedrooms, storage rooms, closets, garages, and storage units. Check for secret compartments in desks, paintings, tables, and even behind shelves and in floors and walls. Check the attic and basement, suitcases, and even look through book pages in case it might have been tucked away there. Diaries, journals, and online accounts sometimes have clues to where documents like a Will might be kept.

Ask The Lawyer

How could you find out which lawyer drew up the Will? Checkbooks and payment records may lead you to the law office where the attorney who drew up the Will works, and a web search should get the contact information from there. The attorney who drew up the Will should have a copy, and while they won't tell you what's in, most likely, they can verify its existence.

Check The Bank

check the banks where the deceased did banking and see if they had a safe deposit box. It is a popular place to store important documents.

Public Records

It's possible that the Will is already in the public record. This happens when the executor starts Probate without notifying all parties. The clerk of the court files the Will after a person dies, but not all Wills are in the public record.

Stay Vigilant

Check the court web site regularly for new Will filings and newly open Probate cases. Let the Probate court know that you want to be notified and, in some states, you can request to be notified if a Probate case is opened in the name of the deceased.

Estate Planning documents are among the most important documents you will need, and legal assistance for making sure that your Will is complete and legally enforceable in your state is extremely important. You can get professional legal help with your Estate Planning, including a Last Will & Testament, a Living Will, Trusts, and more for free when you're a member of our Legal Protection Subscription Plans. Don't wait another day to get these important documents prepared! Sign up today!

How To Avoid Traffic Ticket Scams

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Traffic ticket scams are on the rise, and they go something like this: you get a ticket in the mail that includes a picture of your license plate running a red light. But you don't remember being at the intersection named in the ticket. Dozens of victims have reported receiving traffic tickets in the mail that appear legitimate but are actually part of a scam. Our network of attorneys through our Legal Protection Plans for Individuals & Families can answer your questions and give you advice for your specific situation. In the meantime, if you receive a traffic ticket in the mail, here are six ways to tell if it is real:

Carefully Read The Whole Ticket

A careful read of the entire ticket and anything else that comes with it may give you clues as to the legitimacy of the ticket. One woman noticed that the supposed date of the traffic infraction was on February 30th, for instance. Some clues aren't as blatant as that obvious lie, though, so try to remember where you were on the date in question, whether you were near the location named on the ticket, or if you even drove that day. Taking a few minutes to really read through what you've been sent can reveal the scam right away.

Contact The Authorities

Don't call the number listed on the ticket you received, but call the local law enforcement where the infraction supposedly occurred. Do a quick web search to get the proper contact information and compare it to the numbers you received. When you call, make sure to ask if the number printed on the ticket you were mailed is an actual number for the law enforcement agency in question. The police will be able to tell you whether the ticket is valid and take a report for your false ticket, as well, if the ticket is not legitimate.

Don't Click Any Links

If the ticket came to you via email, it is almost certainly a scam and visiting any link sent to you is taking a risk of the scammers stealing your personal information or installing malware on your machine without you knowing. Clicking on links can also lead to identity theft or scamming you out of money.

Don't Reveal Personal Information

Make sure to investigate by calling the law enforcement agency supposedly responsible for your ticket to verify its veracity before filling out any forms with your personal information, such as credit card information, Social Security numbers, your address, or any other sensitive information. Legitimate law enforcement will not ask for this kind of information (outside of your name) or your credit card  or other payment information over the telephone.

Make Sure All Web Sites Are Official

Only pay tickets online through official web sites that begin with "https." The "s" tells you that web site is secure.

Get Legal Advice

Criminals are always looking for new ways to steal honest people's money and information, so it is critical that you protect yours and your family's privacy, rights, and personal information. Getting legal advice in cases such as this is easy with our Legal Protection Subscription Plans; asking questions doesn't cost you anything more than your monthly subscription fee.

Scams aren't always easy to spot, and even vigilant people are sometimes taken in. With ticket scams like these on the rise, having a lawyer in your pocket is a real benefit. Get legal support, consultation, answers, and advice from our network of dedicated, experienced lawyers for just $29.95 per month. Learn more about all the benefits of our plans or sign up today!