5 Ways to Prepare for an Emergency

No matter where you live it is important to prepare for both natural and man-made disasters. Advanced preparation may help spare you some of the challenges that come during a disaster and in the aftermath. If you have questions or need assistance recovering from a disaster call your LegalShield provider law firm.

1. Develop a basic disaster plan for your family. In many emergency situations cell phone networks become overloaded and unreliable. Make a plan for where your family should meet in the event of an emergency. Find out where the nearest shelter is located. Know your local evacuation routes. If your children are at school, who will pick them up? Review the plan with your family each year. Having a basic understanding of what you need to do during an emergency will help avoid miscommunication and anxiety. U.S. residents can learn more at www.ready.gov. Canadians can view additional resources at www.getprepared.gc.ca.
   
2. Review your insurance policies to make sure you have the best coverage you can afford. Be sure that your homeowners insurance will cover the actual loss of your home and your personal property. If you rent a home or apartment, make sure you have adequate renters insurance. Your landlord’s insurance will not cover damage to your personal property. It is important to understand the exclusions and potential limitations of an insurance policy. Your LegalShield provider law firm can review any new policies before you sign them.
   
3. Develop an emergency contact list. Your list should include family doctors, utility companies, insurance carriers and your LegalShield provider law firm. If possible, keep a hard copy of the list in another location where it can be retrieved if your home is inaccessible. Make sure your family knows where to find the list in an emergency.
   
4. Keep your most critical documents in a safe deposit box or other secure place where they can be retrieved when they are needed. Critical documents include your will, advance medical directive or living will, insurance policies, military discharge and other important papers. It may also be helpful to keep copies of these documents in an alternate location in the event the bank is inaccessible in the aftermath of a disaster. If you do not have a will, advance medical directive or living will, contact your LegalShield provider law firm.
   
5. Know what to do after a disaster. Take photographs of damaged property and retain all documents, including receipts that pertain to your recovery. Contact your insurance company to place a claim as soon as you are able. Write down the name of anyone you speak with and any claim numbers you are given. In addition to insurance, there are many government and non-government programs designed to assist families with disaster recovery. The process of applying for disaster relief can sometimes be confusing. If you need any assistance in the aftermath of a disaster contact your LegalShield provider law firm.

Recovering from Bankruptcy

Bankruptcy can be both emotionally and financially stressful, but bankruptcy also offers the hope of a more financially stable future. It is important to look and plan ahead after bankruptcy. If you need assistance filing for or recovering from bankruptcy call your LegalShield provider law firm today.

• Take stock and review what led you to bankruptcy. Develop a realistic budget and review it frequently. Many banks now offer budget tracking apps and tools that allow you to closely monitor spending.
• Look towards building your savings. Many individuals face high debt and ultimately bankruptcy because of unexpected expenses like medical bills. Savings will help protect you from falling into debt due to emergencies.
• Monitor your credit score. Make sure any inaccurate information on your credit report is corrected. Check each year to ensure the accuracy of your credit score. In addition, after 7 years (6 years in Canada), debts associated with your bankruptcy should be removed from your credit report. If you need assistance working with the credit reporting agencies call your LegalShield provider law firm.
• Rebuild your credit score. Build your credit slowly and responsibly. Pay your bills on time. Do not take on new debt right away and avoid predatory lenders at all cost. Predatory lenders may seek out those who have recently filed for bankruptcy, because their ability to file for another bankruptcy is limited. High-interest loans from predatory lenders can lead to financial ruin.
• Stay positive. You are not alone. Many Americans are facing the same financial problems. Stop worrying about the past and start thinking about how to move forward. Don’t be afraid to set goals for the future. Do you want to go back to school or buy a home? Make a plan for the future and think carefully about how you will pay for it. Setting a plan early will give you the opportunity to succeed.

7 Legal Tips to Keep Teen Drivers Safe

Teen drivers are at a higher risk for both accidents and moving violations. It is important to teach teen drivers about the potential physical and legal damages that may occur as a result of careless driving. Adults too could benefit from a refresher. If you have a question or need legal assistance regarding a ticket or an accident call your LegalShield provider law firm today.

1. Know the traffic laws where you live and lead by example. Most teens learn to drive by watching and driving with their parents. Set a good example by knowing the traffic laws where you live and following them closely. Explain the laws to your children. If you feel your teen needs additional help enroll him or her in a safe driver or driver’s education program.
   
2. Distracted driving is the number one cause of auto accidents. Inexperienced teen drivers are particularly susceptible to distraction. Texting or using a smart phone while driving is now illegal in many states and provinces. It may not only earn you a traffic ticket, but could also seriously injure or kill you. Talk to your teen driver about the risks of distracted driving and set a good example for them by turning off your own phone while driving.
   
3. The law has zero tolerance for teen drunk driving. This means that it is illegal for anyone under the age of 21 (22 in Canada) to have any measurable amount of alcohol in their system while driving. Drunk driving is incredibly dangerous; it is also a criminal charge rather than a traffic violation. Drivers could face heavy fines, loss of license, legal fees, a criminal record and possible jail time.
   
4. Teach teens how to behave during a traffic stop. If pulled over you should first pull safely off the road, turn your interior light on at night and keep your hands on the steering wheel. It is important to be polite and cooperative. Comply with the officer’s requests for your name, driver's license, registration and insurance information. Do not exit the vehicle unless you are directed to do so by the officer. You are not required to consent to a search of your car. If the officer searches over your objection, stay calm and tell the officer you object to the search but do not physically resist the search. Finally, call your LegalShield provider law firm and speak with an attorney.
   
5. Make sure your teen driver knows they cannot simply hide a ticket. Some teens believe that by paying off a traffic ticket on their own, or worse yet, throwing it away, they can escape punishment. Teach your teen that hiding a ticket only makes the problem worse. Simply paying off a ticket will still mean points on his or her license and a higher insurance rate. Throwing a ticket away means he or she will be convicted of the violation. Failure to pay could result in additional fines and a suspended license.
   
6. Explain to your teen what to do if they are in an accident. After an accident pull safely to the side of the road and out of the traffic lanes, if possible. Even if your accident seems minor, call the police and file an accident report. Exchange information with the other driver(s). Do not admit to guilt or responsibility for the accident to the police or other persons. If there are witnesses on the scene take down their contact information. Retain all documents regarding your accident. Do not sign any documents or agree to any type of settlement without calling your LegalShield provider law firm to speak with an attorney.
   
7. Teach your teen about car insurance. Part of the financial and personal responsibility involved in driving includes paying for car insurance. Show your teen how much car insurance costs. Explain to them how the coverage works and that those costs will increase considerably if they are in an accident or receive a traffic ticket.

Personal Injury Law: 7 Frequently Asked Questions

August is typically the most dangerous month for traffic accidents and fatalities. If you are injured in an auto accident you may be entitled to compensation. The following information will help you understand some of the general principles of personal injury law. It is important to speak with an attorney about your rights, options and obligations. If you have been injured in an accident or as a result of someone else’s negligence, call your LegalShield provider law firm.

1. Do I need an attorney for my personal injury? – Insurance companies employ attorneys to protect their interests and it is in their interest to make the lowest possible payment for your injuries. You need an attorney to make sure your interests are protected and that you receive the compensation you deserve. Avoid making a statement, signing an agreement or accepting a settlement before speaking to an attorney.
   
2. How long will it take to receive compensation for my injuries? – It may take time for the complete effects and costs associated with your injury to become apparent. Preparing a solid case or negotiating with an insurance company may also take time. It may be tempting to take a quick payout to cover your immediate expenses, but it is important to consider the complete cost of your injury.
   
3. What kind of compensation might I receive for my injuries? – Compensation may include money for lost wages, medical bills, rehabilitation, disabilities, pain and suffering, as well as other hardships caused by your injuries.
   
4. Is there a deadline for filing a personal injury lawsuit? – Statutes of limitation determine your deadline for filing a lawsuit. Some statutes may be less than a year. It is important to discuss the statutes that apply to your case with an attorney to make sure you do not miss any important filing or notification deadlines.
   
5. Will I receive more compensation if I go to court? – Your attorney can help you decide the best course of action for your particular case. In some instances it may be beneficial to accept a negotiated settlement to avoid the time and expense of a court case. In other situations where a fair settlement cannot be reached it may be necessary to go to court.
   
6. Would I still receive compensation if I were partly responsible for the accident? – This would depend on the state or province where the accident occurred. In some states and provinces you may not be entitled to compensation if you are partly responsible for your injuries. Other states have laws that are used to determine compensation based on your level of fault in the accident. Your attorney will explain the laws that apply to your case.
   
7. How does a contingency fee work? – A contingency fee means the attorney does not receive payment until the opposing party pays a settlement or verdict. In many cases the total fee is a percentage of the money received from the other party plus expenses.

FBI reportedly probing hack of JP Morgan Chase, other US banks

Another weekly incident which we as Americans should be talking seriously.  Protect yourself and your family by having identity theft protection.  Please check out my site at www.myliberty1st.com


The FBI and other federal agencies are investigating a coordinated computer hack targeting JPMorgan Chase and at least four other American banks, according to multiple published reports late Wednesday.

Bloomberg News, citing a U.S. official and a person briefed by law enforcement, reported that the attackers stole personal data that can be used to empty bank accounts. A third person told Bloomberg that employee data was also targeted and that the scale of the theft indicated the potential for serious fraud.

Bloomberg reported that the FBI was looking at whether Russian hackers were involved as a way of retaliating for economic sanctions placed on Moscow due to its involvement in the ongoing conflict with Ukraine. The site's report cited security experts saying that the attack appeared "far beyond the capability of ordinary criminal hackers." 

 

However, an analyst quoted by The Washington Post said that any Russian cyber-retaliation was more likely to involve disruption of networks, not data theft. Bloomberg reported that that investigators had not ruled out Russian or Eastern European cybercriminals.
FBI Supervisory Special Agent Joshua Campbell told the Post that the FBI was working with the Secret Service "to determine the scope of recently reported cyber attacks against several American financial institutions." Bloomberg reported that the National Security Agency was also helping in the probe.

Security breaches at large banks like JPMorgan Chase are rare due to the multiple layers of security around their networks. Spokeswoman Patricia Wexler emailed a statement to the Associated Press and other news outlets saying in part that “companies of our size unfortunately experience cyber attacks nearly every day. We have multiple, layers of defense to counteract any threats and constantly monitor fraud levels."

JPMorgan is the largest U.S. bank by assets.

The Associated Press contributed to this report. 

Published August 28, 2014

FoxNews.com

8 Ways to Protect Your Smartphone

Failing to protect your smartphone or tablet leaves your personal information vulnerable to thieves and hackers. Your personal information may be used to obtain credit, access bank accounts or make fraudulent purchases. These tips are designed to help you secure your smartphone or tablet and protect your personal information.

1. Set your phone to automatically lock when not in use. Leaving your phone unlocked is asking for trouble. If your phone or tablet is stolen or misplaced, keeping it locked will help protect your data. Some phones and devices can be configured to delete all stored data when an incorrect password is entered multiple times.
2. Use strong passwords and update them on a regular basis. Secure passwords include numbers, symbols, lowercase and capital letters. You should not use your name or other easily identifiable information such as a street address or birth date in your password. Do not use the same password for all of your accounts. It is also important to periodically update your passwords.
3. Beware of free open Wi-Fi hotspots. Configure your phone to only join networks you approve. Scammers sometimes set up free wireless networks in public places to lure users to log on. Joining the network could allow the scammer to track data going to and from your phone.
4. Update your device's software. Hackers are continually looking for new security flaws to exploit. Many software updates include important security patches that repair known flaws. Failing to update your software or apps may leave you vulnerable to hackers.
5. Location and anti-theft applications may help you locate a lost phone or deactivate a stolen phone. There are a wide variety of apps that help users locate a lost or stolen phone. Some apps allow you to delete data remotely or completely disable the device. Check reviews and specifications carefully and test the software before your phone is lost or stolen so you know how to use it when the time comes.
6. Only download reviewed and tested applications. Some apps and websites may include malicious software designed to capture your personal information. Read reviews and research new apps before installation.
7. Use encryption to protect sensitive information. If you use your phone or other mobile device for particularly sensitive business or financial communications, talk to your IT professional about using encryption to protect your data.
8. Report your device as lost or stolen. In an effort to curb the rising rate of smartphone theft, some mobile carriers track stolen phones and tablets. Tracking systems only work when thefts are reported. While you might not get your phone or tablet back, these systems can help disable the growing black market for stolen devices. You should also report any theft to your local police department.

9 Legal Tips Every Renter Should Know

These tips were developed to help you understand your rights and obligations as a renter generally. Your rights and obligations are most often determined by the terms of your lease and laws that vary greatly among the states and provinces. Call your LegalShield provider law firm and speak with an experienced attorney who will review the lease document BEFORE you sign it and explain your rights and obligations.

1. Understand the terms of your lease before you sign. One common mistake renters make is signing a lease without fully understanding their rights and responsibilities. As a LegalShield member you can have an attorney review your lease and discuss it with you before you sign.
2. Purchase renters insurance. In the event of a disaster, your landlord’s insurance may only cover the property the landlord owns. Renters insurance is generally affordable and offers protection not only for your personal belongings, but also against many personal injury claims that occur on or near your rental property.
3. Your landlord may be responsible for making repairs in a timely fashion and for keeping the premises safe and in compliance with health and other codes.  However, the landlord’s responsibility varies depending on the terms of the lease and state or provincial laws. Always consult with your provider attorney and ask he or she to review the lease with you.
4. In most cases a landlord must give you notice before entering your home. However, this may be subject to change depending upon the language of your lease or the local laws that apply to it.
5. Never stop paying rent to settle a dispute with your landlord. If you believe that you have a claim against your landlord, you may not be entitled to withhold your rent. Always talk to your LegalShield provider law firm immediately if you have a dispute with your landlord. Even if you have a legitimate claim against your landlord, the landlord may still be entitled to evict you if you do not pay your rent.
6. Under most circumstances, your landlord cannot take your property, change your locks or turn off your utilities merely because you failed to pay rent. However, the landlord may be able to file eviction proceedings against you in court. Call your LegalShield provider law firm if you have any dispute with your landlord.
7. Do not break a lease without understanding your rights and responsibilities. In some rare instances tenants can break a lease without notice, but laws vary and it is important to understand the proper procedure for breaking your lease. If you need to get out of your lease before it expires, call your provider law firm first.
8. Generally, the landlord’s cost for repairing normal wear and tear cannot be deducted from your security deposit. Before moving into and out of a rental property, take detailed pictures of each room. Before and after pictures may be helpful if the landlord claims damages you did not cause.
9. Your landlord must return your deposit in a reasonable amount of time. Specific time frames may vary. If you need assistance with the return of a security deposit, your LegalShield provider law firm can help.

Discount Car Insurance May Cost You....

There are many auto insurance companies advertising low cost coverage. Beware: saving on your premium could cost you if you are involved in an accident. Your LegalShield provider law firm can help review your policy to make sure you understand your coverage and the fine print details.
It is vital that you understand the different types of coverage available.

•Liability coverage protects against injuries and damage you may cause to other people and their property.

•Comprehensive policies cover damage due to something that is out of your control and not the fault of another driver. This may include fire, severe weather damage and accidents involving animals. It is also known as “other-than-collision” coverage.

•Collision coverage insures for repairs or the replacement of your vehicle when it is damaged in an accident for which you were at fault.

•Gap insurance covers the difference between what your car is worth and the amount you still owe on a loan or lease in the event your vehicle is totaled in an accident.

Car insurance companies offer low rate insurance because they limit or exclude certain coverage.

Beware of these types of exclusions.

•Increased deductibles are the most frequent means of
lowering premiums. Make sure your standard deductible is something you can realistically afford without breaking the bank.

•Decreasing your levels of coverage to the legal minimum may put you at risk. A major accident could be far more expensive than what the minimum coverage will allow. Make sure you fully understand what your policy covers and the potential medical and legal expenses you could be responsible for if your accident costs exceed coverage limits.

•Beware of driver exclusions in non-standard car insurance policies. Some of the policies decrease or limit coverage for younger or at-risk drivers.

•Step-down provisions may drop coverage to the legal minimums for permissive drivers. Permissive drivers are individuals who may borrow your vehicle for occasional use, with permission.

•Certain non-standard policies limit the number of miles you can drive in a year.

If you need assistance translating the fine print of your insurance policy or dealing with a claim, call
your LegalShield provider law firm today.

How Grandparents Can Pass Down Good Financial Wisdom

It can be tempting for grandparents to spoil their grandchildren; after all, isn’t that part of the job description? But experts warn the money and financial habits passed down from generation to generation are long lasting.

The value of a dollar and an education are the top lessons boomers can share with their grandchildren, but their numbers might be a little old-school ideas when it comes to just how expensive college is today.

According to a new TIAA-CREF study, conducted by an independent research firm, 20% of grandparents think a four-year college education costs $30,000 to $50,000 and 25% think it costs $50,000 to $75,000. In reality, a four-year public college costs about $100,000 and a private four-year school now averages $164,000, the study shows.

Joseph Stabnick, senior director, AARP College Savings Solutions from TIAA-CREF, offers the following tips for grandparents to positively impact their grandchildren’s money habits to ensure their financial security:

Boomer: How can boomers pass along good financial skills and money-saving habits? 
Stabnick: Boomers can make a positive impact on their grandchildren by sharing how their financial decisions – for better or worse – have affected their lives.

Only 8% of grandparents have conversations with their grandchildren about money and the importance of saving for college, compared to 85% of young adults who are open to having this conversation.

Only three in 10 grandparents think they can influence their grandchildren’s money habits. Yet, 73% of young adults indicate their grandparents actually do influence their saving and spending habits.

Only 59% rate their grandparents as very good to excellent savers.

Source:  FoxNews

What You Need to Know About Credit Repair Scams

If you have a poor credit rating, the promises made by credit repair companies, to provide clean credit histories and access to fresh lines of credit, may seem like a dream come true. Unfortunately, these offers are too good to be true and may leave you in even worse shape than when you started. Here are some of the critical facts you should know about credit repair scams:
Fraudulent credit repair companies often:

• Demand payment upfront;
• Fail to explain your legal rights;
• Instruct you to provide inaccurate information to credit reporting agencies or lenders;
• Dispute accurate information on your credit report; and
• Tell you not to contact or respond to credit reporting agencies yourself.

Companies offering “new credit identities” often charge a fee for what they call a “credit profile number” or “credit privacy number”. These companies will instruct you to apply for credit using this new number. These numbers are often either stolen Social Security Numbers (SSN) or fraudulently obtained Employer Identification Numbers (EIN). Using a fraudulent SSN or EIN is a federal crime and you could be held responsible. Penalties may include steep fines or possible jail time.
The process of improving your credit score takes time and effort, but it can be done. There are many steps you can take and your LegalShield provider law firm is ready to help. Your provider law firm can help dispute inaccurate information on your credit report. They may also help you negotiate payment or settlement agreements for outstanding debts. Call and talk to your provider law firm today!

9 Legal Tips to Help You

Summer is here and chances are you may be planning a vacation or making plans for children once school is out. These tips are designed to help you navigate summer’s potential legal headaches. No matter the season, your LegalShield provider law firm is ready to help you and your family.

1. If you plan to be away from home for any length of time this summer ask trusted friends or neighbors to keep an eye on your home. You may also notify local law enforcement that you will be away. Many police departments have programs that alert local patrol officers when you are away so that they may spot suspicious activity. Also, notify the postal service to hold your mail.
2. Be careful when mentioning your summer plans on Facebook or other social networks. Thieves sometimes use that information to target victims who are away from home.
3. Protect your identity when traveling. Only carry documentation you need. When traveling out of the country carry your passport and always keep it within your sight. Keep copies of all the important information from your wallet at home in case it is lost on your trip.
4. Traveler’s checks and credit cards offer the greatest level of protection from theft and fraud. Let your credit card company and bank know you will be traveling. Keep a list of important contacts so you can quickly notify your credit card company, bank and the police if you are the victim of theft or fraud.
5. If you plan to rent a vacation home make sure you understand the terms of your rental agreement. Your LegalShield provider law firm can review the lease and point out any potential problems.
6. Cruises and expense paid vacations can be a great way to travel within a budget, but make sure you understand the details of the trip before you leave. What is truly covered and what additional expenses are you responsible for during the trip? Your LegalShield provider law firm can help you review your agreement with the resort or cruise company.
7. If you decide to send your children to overnight or day camp during the summer find out about the staff and facilities. Are staff certified in first aid or trained to spot child abuse? Find out about the camp accreditations and inspect the facilities closely before leaving your child. Have your LegalShield provider law firm review any contracts or liability waivers before your sign them.
8. Trauma injuries and ER visits increase in the summer. Make sure you understand your insurance requirements and deductibles for ER visits. If you are traveling far from home, notify your insurance company and ask what your responsibilities are in the event of a medical emergency. Make sure your living will or advanced medical directive is executed and accessible.
9. Before traveling, leave a trusted friend or family member with a copy of your current will, power of attorney and insurance documents. If you do not have a current estate plan contact your LegalShield provider law firm today. Setting up your estate plan ahead of a pending trip allows time for executing the documents and distributing copies.