DirectFunding.org

Pre-Settlement Funding

Thu, 30 Nov 2006 11:13:27 +0000

by: Afra AmirSanjari

ATTENTION ATTORNEYS: Your Client’s Case Was Worth $500,000 But They Were Forced to Take $200,000 Because They Couldn’t Pay Their Own Bills.

The Problem:

Your client is injured as a result of the negligence of others.

Did you know the plaintiff could get fast cash advances on:

Motor vehicles accidents
Ceiling Collapse
Other Premises Liability Cases
Medical Malpractice
Employment Discrimination
Police Misconduct
Toxic Mold
Seaman Claims
Attorney Funding
And Other Types of Injury Cases
Slip/Trip and Falls
Work Site Accidents
Faulty Products
Sexual Harassment
Wrongful Death
Wrongful Arrest/Imprisonment
Jones Act
Class Action Cases
Commercial Cases

It’s exasperating to see clients who have a good case but rush to settlement in order to relieve the terrible stress of personal debt. Insurance Companies continually take advantage of a plaintiff’s precarious financial position to obtain lower settlements. Also, it’s a constant drain on your time and the time of your staff, when your clients are continuously calling for money.

The Solution:

We advance capital toward pending litigation. Peacock Capital does not lend money. Usury laws do not apply because the advanced funds are contingent on the outcome of the case. The funding is non-recourse. If the case is successful, Peacock Capital gets its money plus pre-stated additional fees. If the case is not successful, Peacock Capital loses its entire advance plus any additional fees. If we deem the case acceptable, we will give your client a lump sum cash advance in less than 48 hours (not monthly like many others). This helps cover case expenses, personal costs and/or medical payments. Again, if the case is lost, we receive nothing, with no further obligations.

The only thing you should be worried about is the case, not the financial problems of your client.

About The Author
Afra AmirSanjari is the Principal for Peacock Capital.
Peacock Capital specializes in solving the cash flow challenges of Small/Medium Businesses, Government Vendors and Individuals with innovative financial solutions by providing a network for securing operating capital.
http://www.peacockcapital.com
info@peacockcapital.com

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http://whatispresettlementfunding.com/

Pre-settlement Funding Answers

goodstar — Thu, 30 Nov 2006 11:07:53 +0000

by: Tony Perkins

Pre-settlement funding can be a confusing concept. Plus, most people have never been exposed to the concept of pre-settlement funding so the average person probably has many questions such as: What is a pre-settlement funding? Do I need pre-settlement funding? How do I get funding for my lawsuit? When I am approved for funding, do I have to pay back the money? If I am denied funding does it mean that I do not have a good case? These are all very good questions and are answered below.

What is pre-settlement funding?

Pre-settlement funding is not a “loan” at all but rather it is a cash advance based upon the merits of a lawsuit that provides a plaintiff with sufficient funding to reach the conclusion of the case when the plaintiff will receive his/her fair share of the settlement or verdict. Pre-settlement funding companies invest in the lawsuit itself as opposed to advancing money to the plaintiff in the form of a loan. Pre-settlement funding is not based on a plaintiff’s prior credit or bankruptcy status. Other terms used for this type of funding include: lawsuit loan, litigation finance, litigation loan, lawsuit funding, lawsuit finance, lawsuit cash advance, case loan, case cash advance, plaintiff cash advance, litigant funding, pre-settlement loan, pre-settlement lending, pre-settlement cash advance, etc.

Do I need pre-settlement funding?

Pre-settlement funding should not be a substitute for your settlement but rather a raft that helps you stay afloat while your attorney fights for you. Too many plaintiffs apply for pre-settlement funding with the belief that pre-settlement funding is simply a different way to get their settlement money. Assuming you win your case, the amount owed to the lending company varies greatly depending upon the length of time between the date of the advance and the date when you receive the settlement/verdict money. You should exhaust other means of funding first. Also, a good guideline to use is that pre-settlement funding companies generally advance up to 10% of the estimated settlement amount. There are some good internet sites that give more background on pre-settlement funding. Some good sources of information are The Funding Exchange (www.TheFundingExchange.com) and Expert Law (www.expertlaw.com).

How do I get funding for my lawsuit?

Pre-settlement funding companies have popped-up all over the country. Some tout their “low interest rates” or how they are the most lenient when it comes to approving pre-settlement funding. Many of these finance companies charge certain penalties and fees. These penalties and fees sometimes offset their “low interest rates” and many times end-up costing the plaintiff more of their settlement. A good option is The Funding Exchange (www.TheFundingExchange.com). The Funding Exchange is a network of pre-settlement funding sources. You complete one application on The Funding Exchange and your application is intelligently routed to the best pre-settlement funding companies for your specific situation.

When I am approved for funding, do I have to pay back the money?

Almost all pre-settlement funding companies give non-recourse funding to plaintiffs thus requiring the plaintiff to pay back the advance and fees/interest only upon a favorable decision in the case. If the case is lost then you can keep the cash advance with no obligation. If you win your case then part of the settlement amount will go towards repaying the cash advance plus interest and fees. The amount owed to a pre-settlement funding company increases the longer that your case takes to settle so keep that in mind.

If I am denied funding does it mean that I do not have a good case?

The simple answer is “no.” Being denied for funding does not mean that your case is not a good case or that you will actually win less money than you think. There are many different reasons why funding is denied. One reason is that the estimated settlement date is too soon. Litigation finance companies make money by accruing interest on their investment in your case. If your case is supposed to settle in 2 months then a litigation finance company will not make any money because the settlement date is too soon and therefore they may decline the funding request. Other reasons for denying funding include: attorney will not provide documentation, attorney will not sign contract, plaintiff demands too much money, etc.

Conclusion

As a plaintiff, you should understand pre-settlement funding and the process of securing funding before you apply. If your expectations are set correctly and you proceed with pre-settlement funding then you will find that it is a saving grace in the sometimes ugly world of litigation. If you apply for pre-settlement funding without a true understanding then you may be disappointed.

About The Author
Tony Perkins is the president of The Funding Exchange which connects lawsuit funding sources in the country to plaintiffs in need of a lawsuit loan. The Funding Exchange is not a lawsuit lending company but rather it is an independent 3rd party company that routes a high volume of plaintiff applications every day to its network of litigation funding companies.

View their website at: www.TheFundingExchange.com

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http://whatispresettlementfunding.com/

How Pre-Settlement Lawsuit Funding Works

goodstar — Thu, 30 Nov 2006 11:01:47 +0000

by: Afra AmirSanjari

An injured person contacts a company that offers pre-settlement lawsuit funding, sometimes at the suggestion of an attorney. The finance company contacts the lawyer who is handling the case, and obtains information about the case. Based upon that information provided, the loan company estimates the value of the likely eventual settlement or verdict, and offers a cash advance to the injured person based upon that estimate. The fee may be a flat fee, or a monthly fee that accrues each month the loan is outstanding. When the case settles, or the defendant pays after losing in court, the loan and associated fees are paid to the finance company.

These advances are offered as non-recourse funding, which means that an injured person has no obligation to repay if the lawsuit is lost. Similarly, if the ultimate settlement or verdict is smaller than anticipated, the amount that must be repaid never exceeds the amount of the injured person’s share of that verdict or settlement. For legal reasons, these advances are not characterized as loans.

Amounts available vary significantly, depending upon the nature of the case and the company involved. Many companies offer pre-settlement funding amounts between $500 and $25,000. A few offer amounts up to $100,000. Fees also vary depending upon the company and the type of case. Some companies will fix the fee for the advance up front. Others will charge a monthly fee for each month between the time the funding is issued and when it is repaid, sometimes as high as 15% per month.

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All You Wanted to Know of Bad Credit

goodstar — Mon, 24 Jul 2006 13:53:52 +0000

Martin Henderson is in a fix these days. Because of his failure to repay a loan he had taken a few years back, he has been adjudged as a bad credit case. And, in spite of much effort, he has not been able to get a loan or a mortgage. Lenders do not want to take risk by offering loans to him, and he is severely in need of money.This is not a single case. There are many who are facing bad credit and the problems resulting from it is making their lives difficult.

Failure to pay the debts in most cases is unintentional. Most people are mainly concerned with the immediate relief that the loan or credit will offer. They do not want to mar the immediate relief by thinking of the repayment in future. They feel that their present income is enough to meet these extra expenditures. It surely is sufficient to meet the cost of repayments, until the financial condition changes for worse, and it becomes difficult to make the repayments on time.

Some creditors make the payment terms flexible for borrowers who are going through financial depression. Others will wait to see that the customer mends his ways. If not, then they report the matter to the credit reference agencies. credit reference agencies monitor all actions of the borrower on his debts in their respective credit file. The main credit reference agencies are Experian and Equifax. These agencies record information about the defaults on loan or mortgage.

The defaults being registered in the credit file has serious repercussions for the borrower. This will impede the borrower from getting loans in the future. County Court Judgement registered by the County Courts keep the record of bad credit for a period of six years. This can be reviewed if the customer pays off the debts within a month of the judgement. A further delay can make the judgement irrevocable.

Individual voluntary arrangements are another form of bad credit that disqualifies customers from getting good deals in loans and mortgages. Individual voluntary arrangements or IVAs for short is a step that saves individuals the brunt of bankruptcy. The individual or the official receiver, trustee or bankruptcy courts can request the creditor for IVAs. Through this arrangement, the debtor can sort out an arrangement for the payment of the debt through a well-defined plan within a period normally extending to 5 years. Since this is a legal arrangement, both the debtors and the creditors are bound by it. The failure by the debtor at any point of time gives right to the creditor to take action against the other party. Even though IVAs lead to the repayment of the debt, it tarnishes the credit of the borrower.
However, IVAs are suitable only for those who believe that they can pay the debt in full by making sm all monthly repayments. If not, or if the debt contracted is a sizeable figure, then bankruptcy will be the only solution. Though more painful as the borrower will have to lose most of his belongings, this will free the customer of the debts in the least time (two to three years is the normal time of repayment). The bankruptcy courts negotiate the settlement of the debts with the creditors, and make the payments after liquidating the assets. The credit file sh all however include the name of the borrower among the bad credit cases for about 6 years.

So just as we plan our work schedule, it is vital to plan the repayment of the loan or mortgage. A certain amount of insurance paid along with the loan repayments, will assure that the loan is paid in full. This is known as loan protection. Mortgage protection is available similarly to ensure that the mortgage is paid in full. These will add to the monthly cost but will offer peace of mind.

Debt consolidation loans can help curb the menace of debts. Though many lenders reject the loan application, some are ready to take up the risk. These settle all debts incurred by the individual through a single loan. However, one must avoid the bait of taking debt consolidation loans at high rates of interest. This will only save you from one danger, only to push you into other.

Last but not the least comes the debt management options undertaken by the individuals themselves. One must learn to live by the limits. Taking too many loans or mortgages will only worsen the finances.

So, the next time you plan a loan or mortgage, think twice. Taking advice from independent advisors about the amount and type of loan or mortgage will go a long way in improving your financial health.
About the Author

About the Authorjames taylor holds a Master’s degree in Commerce from JNU he is working as financial consultant for

http://www.chanceforloans.co.uk To find a Personal
Loans, bad credit Loans,Debt Consolidation that best suits your needs visit

http://www.chanceforloans.co.uk

http://www.chanceforloans.co.uk/secured_personal_loan.html
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http://directfunding.org

Accident Solicitor - You’re Not Alone Anymore

goodstar — Wed, 19 Jul 2006 01:42:00 +0000

How many times did you feel cheated or abused by companies which had used any available trick to gain your claim? A re you tired with all the sale tricks and sophisticated jargon? Well, you don’t have to deal with it on your own anymore! An accident solicitor will take ca re of your case.

Their job is to guide you through the meanders of law and help you claim your legal compensation. A solicitor can help you with your accident claim and solve your problems much easier and faster than if you tried to do it by yourself. Step by step, shall the specialists guide you through the process of claiming your compensation: injury assessment, medical reports, court case and final agreement.

And how much will you pay for all of it? Zero!

No win - no fee!

What would be the use of an accident solicitor if you had to pay him for nothing, especially when it wasn’t your fault? It’s even mo re an important question if you can’t work and fees a re an issue. You need to use a service based on ‘no win no fee’ agreement. It simply means that if you lose your case, you don’t pay anything. And it’s gets better: if you win, you gain all the compensation and the fee is recovered from the third party! This solution is both comfortable and safe for you.

Not only you don’t pay the fee, but all the process of your claim is taken ca re off as well. Fees and bills a re taken ca re off. From the initial contact to the final accident compensation settlement - you get all of it for free. No small print, no strings attached!

In Black And White

What’s the use of an advisor if you don’t understand what they’ re saying? Solicitors should explain all the nuances of the case in simple English, without any annoying jargon. Without catches or tricks, you get 100% of your accident compensation and they should take all the risk. Fees a re paid only if your case is won and it is paid by the losers or their insurance company. An accident solicitor also pays all the costs of medical reports, court fees and any other expenses - none of these a re deducted from your compensation. It is really that easy!

No Work - No Money?

If the accident results you being unable to work, the accident compensation may be the only money you can count on, so it’s twice as important to claim it. You don’t have to leave with empty pockets. Also, as being injured, dealing with the bureaucracy is even harder and mo re troublesome than usual. Why would you bother with the problems all by yourself? This is when an accident solicitor comes in to help.

No Stress!

Accidents themselves a re painful enough, so do you really want to add the inconvenience of handling everything on your own? Let them do the work - they a re the professionals and they should be the re for you.

The perspective of a court case is never pleasant but with the help of an accident claim solicitor it may be avoided. If both sides agree with the accident facts, the claim can be settled without any court action, which makes it much faster and less inconvenient. What’s also very important, the service prepared should be streamlined to make it comfortable as possible for you as a client. All the work should be done for you, so you don’t have to worry about anything.

Any Doubts?

If you have any questions about the services of an accident solicitor, just ask them. Asking questions will make the path clear for you.

About The Author

mohammad Latif

It’s easy to make a compensation claim with a quality accident solicitor on your side. Discover, the 12 ‘Revolutions’ in a positive personal injury claim cultu re at http://www.100percent-compensation.co.uk

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http://directfunding.org

Accident Compensation in the UK: The Basics

goodstar — Wed, 19 Jul 2006 01:41:01 +0000

Life is not always a smooth sailing. Sudden unfortunate accidents do occur at times. One cannot do much to completely avoid the accidents. The pain and suffering that it brings along with it can leave one in total dismay. One cannot completely eradicate the misery brought by accidents but a bit of respite can be achieved if some authority takes charge of at least the financial loss that occurs with accidents.

There are several independent accidents claim service providers. They have specialist solicitors who are members of The Law Society panel of personal injury experts. These experienced solicitors are able to manage wide variety of accident claims that may be either accident at work, industrial illness, cycle accident, pedestrian accident, slips and falls, car accident compensation. Most of the claim service providers offer free phone consultation to guide you in the best way to claim compensation for the incurred injury and loss.

accident compensation in the uk is managed by numerous independent firms, most of which have experienced solicitors who are veterans in getting approval for accident claims. They can efficiently manage both incidents involving any minor injury or incidents that can pose a risk to one’s normal living. If ever one falls a prey to any unfortunate accident it’s always advised to take help from professional claim managers since they are more experienced and can better handle the technicalities involved in the matter.

If one exercises due diligence it is easy to come across a claim management company that does not charge any initial fees for their services. Keeping the interest of accident victims in mind, there has also been an amendment in the law involving solicitors. The new amendment promotes NO WIN NO PAY scheme. According to this if the legal advisor of the victim does not win the case and get the claim accepted he would not be entitled to any professional or legal charges. This development comes as a boon to many sufferers.

There are wide varieties of compensations that can be claimed including ‘general damages’ ‘pain and suffering’, ‘loss of amenity’, ‘disadvantage in labor market’, ‘special damages’ and several others. Even damages hard to characterize or calculate can be redeemed if one finds a competent solicitor.

With the advent of Internet most claim settlement companies also own a website that informs about the services of indemnity provided by them. Fortunately people in uk are entitled to vast array of reimbursable items ranging to even loss of future earnings. Cases involving medical negligence also come under legal compensation category. Whatever the case, a person should choose carefully the claim management firm who represents them.

About The Author

jon hartley writes about a variety of legal topics, but focuses on accident compensation. Learn more at http://www.neat-compensation.co.uk/.

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Accident attorney - Should you hire one?

goodstar — Wed, 19 Jul 2006 01:40:06 +0000

The following article was written for Resources For Attorneys.com by david Hallstrom, a private investigator, he is not now nor has he ever been an attorney.You have been in a accident, automobile, slip and fall, workplace, etc.. Should you see or speak with an attorney?

As far as I am concerned, the answer is always yes.

When should you consult with an accident attorney? You should seek the advise of an accident attorney as soon as possible after the accident. Do not wait. You could be giving up certain rights. You should definetly speak with an attorney before speaking with the other sides insurance agent, adjuster or attorney.

You say that you can not afford an attorney. Most accident attorneys will consult with you for free and, if they take your case, will handle it on a contingency basis, not taking any fee untill the case is settled. Most settlements are increased to cover the cost of the attorney and therefore normally the attorney costs you nothing. Many attorneys will also advance all court costs for you if they are forced to file suit.

You say that you were injured, however, the insurance company has offered to pay your medical bills and you do not feel it is right to take advantage of them by asking for additional money for your, pain, suffering, lost work, etc.. Don’t you feel that you as a person are worth something? Do you think so little of yourself that you feel that your pain, suffering, inconvience, etc. is worthless. You did not cause this accident. What you are going through was caused by someone else. You deserve to be compensated. The insurance company, as a matter of good business, has already built these types of costs into the premiums that they charge their customers. If the money does not go to you it will probably go to their shareholders or to increased salaries or ?. Why shouldn’t you be properly compensated. Remember most good attorneys are ethical and although they will attempt to obtain as much money for you as is due, they will not take your case unless they feel that it is proper.

You say someone else admitted liability and said that their insurance will pay all your damages. That’s great, however, what if the person changes his or her story later on and says that you were at fault. Or what if the other side’s insurance company refuses to pay what you think is proper. In fact, how do you know what is proper? Remember, an insurance company may pay claims, but it is in business to make money. It normally will not offer one dollar more than it has to and if you are not represented by an attorney the insurance company adjuster or attorney may feel that he or she can “get away” with paying much less than the claim may be worth. Additionally, what people state at the time of an accident is not always what they state after having spoken with a friend, insurance agent or attorney. Finally, an insurance adjuster or insurance attorney works for the insurance company, not for you. How do you know that what they are telling you is correct or true. Remember, in most instances, they are there to try and save the company money. You need an attorney on your side to tell you what your rights and obligations are.

You say that you were not hurt that bad or at all. How do you know how badly you were hurt. Some injuries do not show up for months. Other injuries may aggrivate a prior problem. Even if you have been found to be “ok” by a doctor, how do you know that a problem will not come up later. If you have insurance and did go to a doctor, who is going to pay your co-pay or deductible. If you do not have health insurance, who is going to pay for your examination which should include xrays, etc.. If you retain an attorney he or she can probably refer you to a doctor who will accept a lien against the insurance settlement, thereby saving you from paying money out of your pocket.

You say you have accident insurance, why not let them handle everthing for you. Your insurance company is there to defend any claims against you not to represent you in any claims against other parties. Additionally, they also are in business to make money. How do you know if they are trying to settle a case to help you or to save themselves money.

The foregoing article was written by the author based on experiences he has had as a private investigator representing both accident attorneys and insurance companies. This article is not stated as a legal opinion or as fact but instead is stated as opinion of the author.

Permission is given to reprint this article providing credit is given to the author, david G. Hallstrom, and a link is listed to Resources For Attorneys the owner of this article. Anyone or any company reprinting this article without giving proper credit and the correct link, is doing so without permission and will be subject to legal action.

About the Author

About the AuthorLicensed private investigator for over thirty years, President of Resources For Attorneys. The detective agency represents over 1900 attorneys and the author has given several hundred seminars to attorney groups regarding private investigations, process serving, how to set up and operate a private law practice, etc..

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http://directfunding.org

A Revolutionary Fundraising Opportunity — Life Settlements

goodstar — Wed, 19 Jul 2006 01:39:07 +0000

Amid fundraisers’ growing concerns about the current charitable giving climate, dampened by the erratic stock market and shaky economy, a new fundraising opportunity has emerged – life Settlements.

What is a life Settlement? a life Settlement is the sale of an existing life insurance policy for a lump sum of cash that is more than the cash surrender value. a life insurance policy is property, like a car, house, stocks and bonds that can be legally sold in accordance with applicable laws. Through a life Settlement, a policy owner can realize value today from an asset that is generally thought to only have a benefit when the insured passes away.

How can life settlements be used in Fundraising? There are many variations and complex estate and tax planning strategies that can be employed when utilizing life settlements in a planned giving program. However, in its simplest terms, a Donor who owns a life insurance policy gives the policy to the philanthropic organization that in turn immediately sells the policy for a lump sum of cash through a life Settlement.

In order for a policy to be eligible for a life settlement, it must meet the following criteria:

Insuring an individual over age sixty-five (65) or with a serious illness
With a face value of at least $100,000
Issued over two (2) years ago

Donor Benefits:

Making a donation to his/her favorite philanthropic organization without depleting cash reserves or losing income-producing assets;
Getting a tax deduction for the fair market value (selling price) of the life insurance policy instead of only the cash surrender value;
Being able to see their donation put to use during their lifetime rather than after their death if the organization did not utilize a life Settlement;
Eliminating the requirement of continued premium payments on the policy;
Removing a taxable asset from their estate if the policy was individually held.

Organization Benefits:

Receive a donation from a Donor who may not have otherwise been in a position to contribute at all;
Collect a lump sum of cash today instead of having to wait for the insured’s death to collect the proceeds;
Not having the financial burden of paying premium payments to keep the policy in force;
Providing a valuable option to the Donor that furthers their tax and estate planning objectives and invites the opportunity for future/additional gifts.
Improved annual budget forecasting ability

How Does a life Settlement Work?

Once the Donor is considering gifting a life insurance policy to the organization, the life insurance policy should be appraised. Typically, a life Settlement Broker can determine its eligibility for a life settlement and will undertake it to obtain the highest offer for the policy.

The value of a life insurance policy is determined by a number of factors, including, but not limited to, the age and medical condition of the insured, type of insurance policy, rating of the issuing insurance company and amount of premium payments to keep the life insurance policy in force. Most types of insurance policies can qualify, including universal, whole life, and converted term. When a mutually agreed upon price is determined for the life insurance policy, the organization that now owns the policy is paid a lump sum in cash, the ownership and beneficiary rights are transferred to the purchaser. All future premium payments are the responsibility of the purchaser and upon the death of the insured, the death benefit is payable to the purchaser. The cash proceeds from the life Settlement may be used by the organization in any way – there are no restrictions regarding the use of the funds. The money may be invested or spent on current projects. Because some life Settlement Brokers offer fundraising support, it makes sense for organizations to partner with them for their expertise.

life Settlement Regulations

As of June, 2003, eighteen (18) states have enacted statutes addressing the sale of life insurance policies insuring non-terminally or chronically ill individuals and an additional seventeen (17) states have laws that only regulate the sale of life insurance policies insuring terminally or chronically ill individuals. Fifteen (15) states do not regulate the transaction at all.

Donated life Insurance Policies

In addition, most philanthropic organizations currently own life insurance policies that have been donated in the past. If there is a need for funds sooner rather than later or if the premium payments are becoming burdensome, the organization can utilize life Settlement transactions to sell those policies for lump sums of cash and put the money to work right away.

life settlements are powerful arrows in the quivers of professional fundraisers –

Generating money for their organizations by encouraging current gifting of life insurance policies
Turning already donated life insurance policies into cash

About The Author

The author, jolene D. Fullerton, practicing attorney for eighteen (18) years and former Director and Vice President of the Viatical and life Settlement Association of America, the industry’s trade association, is General Counsel for a leading life Settlement Broker company, First Secured Life, LLC located at 1926 Victori a Avenue, Fort Myers, FL 33901; Telephone: 877-968-7785, Website: www.firstsecuredlife.com/nonprofit.html

jolene.fullerton@firstsecuredlife.com

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http://directfunding.org

5 Tips For Hiring A Professional Debt Settlement Company!

goodstar — Tue, 18 Jul 2006 01:46:57 +0000

If you’re considering using debt settlement to help you pay off your credit cards, here are 5 tips to help you decide on a company to help you.Keep in mind that hiring a debt settlement company is no different than hiring any business to perform a service for you – so make sure you find the one that fits your needs the best. Not all debt settlement companies are the same. Like with any industry, there are good ones, and there are the rest.

Unfortunately, when it comes to settling credit card debts, you often hear more stories about people who complain than those who receive good service (and there are many).

How do you determine which settlement company will offer you the best service?

1) Shop around
When hiring a settlement company, you should contact at least 2-3 different businesses and compare the services and terms they offer. Not only will you find the best company to represent you, but you will learn a lot about how debt settlement works, and how it can help you.

2) Check with the BBB
While not everyone with a complaint contacts the Better business Bureau (so a clean record may be misleading) if there are several unresolved complaints, that is a “red flag” to find out why there are unhappy customers. If the complaints have been resolved, that is a good sign that the debt settlement company offers good customer service. You can search for company records online at www.BBB.org.

3) Check references
While debt settlement is a confidential process, and therefore you may not find many companies willing to give out names of happy customers, it is worth asking. Talking to a former customer will tell you more about a company than any brochure or website.

4) Get all the details in writing first
This is an absolute MUST – you should never agree to anything, sign any paperwork, or send in any money until you get all the terms and conditions in writing. A written contract will help you understand what service you should receive, how much it will cost you, and protect you if an issue comes up.

5) Ask lots of questions
If you have any questions (and the more settlement companies you talk to, the more questions you will have) make sure to ask them – and get the answers you want. If a company is not willing to take the time to answer your questions now, how will they respond to you once you become a client and your money is at stake?

Bottom line, it is your responsibility to “do your homework” and research the best company to help you settle your debts.

If you take the time and effort to find the company that will fit your needs the best – just like you would when hiring any professional – you will greatly reduce the chances of a major problem occurring.

Settling your credit card debt is a big decision for anyone to make, so don’t make the decision lightly!

About The Author:
kris bickell is the owner of www.Debt-Tips.com. For more tips on getting out of debt using debt settlement and saving money, sign up for 5 Simple tips For Getting Out Of debt Much Faster & Saving A Bunch Of Money! http://www.Debt-Tips.com/debt.html

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11 Things to Do (And 5 Things To Avoid) If You Get in an Auto Accident

goodstar — Tue, 18 Jul 2006 01:45:04 +0000

No matter how well you drive, you’ll probably be involved in a fender bender sometime in the next few years. Here’s a list of tips will help make your accident less traumatic.DO:

(1) Prepare by having a notepad, a few pens and a disposable camera in the glovebox. Print out this article and store it to help you remember what to do.

Sketch the accident scene, noting all cars involved, roadways, direction of travel, skid marks, and anything else to help your case. Write a description of what happened. Note any contributing factors like wet roads, or blocked signs that couldn’t be seen. Date, time and sign your notes. Photograph the scene.

(2) Beware of accident scams. Some thieves will pretend to have an accident by bumping the rear of your car on an empty road. When you get out of the car to investigate, they rob you or steal your car. Drive to a populated place or police station before getting out of your car if things seem suspect.

(3) Copy down driver’s license numbers and vehicle owner’s registration. Remember that the owner (i.e. the insured) might not be the driver. Find out the insurance company name, passenger’s names, and the work and home telephone number of the driver.

(4) Record license plates and VIN’s (vehicle identification numbers) from the other cars. The VIN is located on the driver’s side of the dashboard and can be seen through the windshield. This will you later on help if the driver happens to have stolen plates and a bogus registration card.

(5) Collect names, addresses and phone numbers of witnesses.

(6) Call the police if the accident is on a public roadway.They can help document your case and prove how it happened.
(7) Move your car and your self off the highway after getting all your data / evidence. Standing in the street or waiting in your damaged car on the roadway can be dangerous. Turn on your flashers and put up warning triangles well in front of the accident to warn other drivers.

(8) Observe the other drivers’ actions after the crash. If they are crawling under their car to inspect damage after an accident, then they don’t have a serious injury. A photo of this wouldn’t hurt your case.

(9) Control your temper. It is easier for the police to determine you are at fault if you are a raving hothead. You will be the one they remember two months from now in court. Stay cool.

(10) Get the names and badge numbers of police present. Each officer may have a different view of what the evidence was, and having contact with all of them might help your case.

(11) Get a copy of your claim file from your insurance company. Double check to make sure your claim is accurate. A mistake found today can save you from paying high premiums in the future.

(1) Don’t admit fault to anyone. Your words might be used against you later.

(2) Never discuss how the auto accident happened. You don’t want other drivers’ versions of the car accident to influence yours, and you don’t want something to slip out that makes you responsible.

(3) avoid moving your car until after you have other parties’ license and vehicle registration information. Don’t give the other driver a chance to drive off, leaving you with the problem.

(4) Refuse t0 accept any roadside settlements. Often damage can be hidden and much greater than originally expected.

(5) Don’t let anyone pick your auto repair facility for you. You have the right by law to choose whichever auto repair shop you’d like, and your insurance must cover it. Ask your friends and neighbors for a reputable shop. Pick one that has been in business at least five years, preferably ten. You want a business that will be around if you have problems later.

About the Author

About the AuthorDonald Smith is the president and founder of Auto Glass America. Visit his website at crackedwindshield.com to get more car tips.

Need a windshield? Find out 5 WAYS TO GET A WINDSHIELD FOR FREE! free.crackedwindshield.com

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A Quality Accident Solicitor Is On Your Side

goodstar — Mon, 17 Jul 2006 03:28:32 +0000

When you have an accident, where do you turn for help? Who plays the most important role in helping you recover from your accident? Most people would answer ‘hospital’ or ‘doctor’. Few think about the important role played by an accident solicitor. Yet the accident claim solicitor can make the difference between a successful claim that results in the compensation you need, or one that falls between the cracks.

Think about it. You’ve suffered an accidental injury. You want to recover physically. You also need to recover financially. You will have to rebuild your life after the accident and get back to normal. If you take your accident claim for granted, if you don’t think carefully about your choice of an accident compensation solicitor, getting back to normal might be more difficult than you imagine.

Your Feelings

When you suffer an injury, it affects your ability to work and your way of life. Even a minor accident or injury can have an impact more than you might think. After the accident, you seek the help of an accident claim solicitor and you assume everything will be fine. You’ll be compensated fairly. The compensation won’t make up for the traum a you suffered in the accident, but at least you’ll receive the accident compensation you deserve.

What happens if you don’t get the compensation you deserve and need? What happens when your accident claim falls through the roof, or when you lose most of your compensation to hidden fees you weren’t expecting?

Everything depends on the accident claim solicitor you select.

Mutual Feelings

After an accident, the last thing you probably want to think about is going through a lot of effort to select the right solicitor. Most likely you’ve never been through the accident claim process before; it’s not something you’ve ever had to think about or deal with. So you just go through the motions, thinking all you need is a solicitor to help you process your claim. You don’t think about the qualifications that a solicitor should have. After all, a compensation claim is straightforward and should take care of itself. You will receive your compensation. The solicitor is just there to push papers for you.

Wrong.

Too often, accident victims don’t receive the compensation they should. Their claim is not handled competently and suddenly they are left without compensation, without a job, without the promising future they worked so hard to achieve before the accident. All because they selected the wrong solicitor; because they thought it didn’t matter which one they choose – they thought they’re all alike.

Selection Process

Selecting an accident compensation solicitor is one of the most important decisions you will make following an accident. It’s not just a matter of filing an accident claim. You need one who knows exactly what to do and how to do it. Too many solicitors don’t know how to get the job done properly. As a result, a claim that should be handled easily can be completely run off track.

Many will see you, the accident victim, as a source of money. They might be competent in handling your accident claim and winning compensation for you. But then they take a huge bite out of your compensation by way of hidden fees they never discussed with you up front. Because you already signed the papers – completely unaware of what you were signing – you’re stuck with this situation. So much for your accident compensation.

Consider Your Choice

You should put as much care into selecting your solicitor as you do with the most major decisions in your life. Your solicitor holds the key to your future. It means the difference between getting your life back on track, or losing everything you’ve worked so hard to achieve – all because of an accident, and because you weren’t careful in choosing the right solicitor to handle your accident claim.

It’s easy to see why you wouldn’t think carefully about your choice. After all, it’s not your fault you were in an accident, and the last thing you need is another headache. You just want to process your claim and put everything behind you. You don’t feel like taking the time to carefully screen a solicitor. You just want to move ahead and get your compensation.

But if you don’t use care in choosing the solicitor who will handle your case, you will be facing even bigger headaches for the rest of your life.

Background Search

When you choose an accident solicitor to handle your case…

Check their professional history
Have their cases been successful?
Is their track record proven?
Does their professional history demonstrate tenacity, a determination to pursue each claim to a successful conclusion?
Does the track record demonstrate that the solicitor knows how to judge the validity of an accident claim?

Interview

Next, interview the accident solicitor. Ask questions. You are hiring them to do a job for you. You are the boss. This is your future at stake – your injury compensation, your recovery. Just as you would only want the most competent and enthusiastic person working for you to build your business, you want the same with something even more important – rebuilding your life after the accident.

You want to hire a specialist who will be diligent with their work; one who knows which steps to take to handle your case expertly and win you the compensation you are entitled to; one who offers a personalised service, who will take your claim as seriously as they would take their own. a solicitor who already has a game plan and ready to begin actively seeking a settlement on your behalf.

Pay attention to the way your case is being discussed with you.

Does the solicitor ask questions that lead you to believe they know the best steps to take?
Are they straightforward about the game plan?
Is the solicitor forthcoming with detailed information and answers to your questions?
Does the solicitor communicate easily with you?
Do you feel confident he/she will keep you in the loop at each stage of the claim process?

Keep Asking

Finally, ask them about fees. Be sure they give you straightforward answers to your questions and doesn’t seem to be hiding information or using language you don’t understand. You do not want an compensation solicitor who takes a huge chunk out of your compensation to cover hidden fees. Your life was set off track by your accident – not the solicitor’s. You are the only one entitled to receive the settlement cheque. Don’t let this terrible event make them wealthy, and don’t choose one you suspect is trying to deceive you about the costs of handling your claim.

While it seems the incompetent accident solicitors outnumber the competent ones, you can still find the best solicitor to handle your case. But you won’t find the best solicitor if you don’t look, ask and if you don’t take care in selecting them. Choose them with the same diligence you’d use in selecting a spouse. After all, your future security and prosperity depends directly on the solicitor who will see your claim through to a successful conclusion and win you the compensation to rebuild your life.

About The Author

mumtaz Shah

It’s easy to make an personal injury claim, with a quality accident solicitor, if you ask! The 12 ‘Revolutions’ were created to put all your compensation in your pocket. Learn more at

http://www.100percent-compensation.co.uk/articles/accident-solicitor.html

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4 Tips to Help You Find a Reputable Mesothelioma Lawyer

goodstar — Mon, 17 Jul 2006 03:24:15 +0000

mesothelioma is a rare form of cancer that affects the sac lining the chest (the pleura), the lining around the heart (the pericardium), or the lining of the abdominal cavity (the peritoneum). Studies have shown that people, who suffer from the disease mesothelioma, were exposed to an abundance of asbestos at one time or another in their life. Unfortunately, many people become exposed to asbestos unknowingly, usually as part of a job. Because of this, someone who has mesothelioma is often entitled to compensation. There are many mesothelioma lawyers, but the following easy tips can make it easier to find a mesothelioma lawyer.

1. Research all you can concerning mesothelioma. The more you understand the disease affecting you or a loved one, the better you will be able to judge a lawyer’s expertise. A lawyer who understands many aspects about the disease is the ideal lawyer. If your lawyer understands your or your loved one’s symptoms, and complications stemming from the disease, he or she will be better able to defend you. Unfortunately, some lawyers do not “do their homework” in regards to medical cases. This often leads to losing cases. A reputable lawyer will certainly know the ins and outs of the disease, so be sure to ask as many questions as you can think of.

2. Use phone books and Internet search engines to find lawyers. This may seem simple, but some people don’t bother taking the time to look through many lawyers. Accepting the first lawyer that calls, or that one sees on TV is not a good idea. Searching in Google for the keyword ” mesothelioma lawyer” will yield better results in the end than simply accepting whatever lawyer comes along. Giving yourself a variety of lawyers to consider will give you the best idea of who will be willing to work hardest for you, who is sincere, and who will most likely help you win your claim.

3. Read the fine print, and know your lawyer’s case history. Once you are nearing your decision and narrowing down potential candidates, take your research to a new level. It is always a good idea to find out about a lawyer’s case history. Additionally, it is advisable to know exactly what kind of deal the lawyer is seeking with you. Lawyers dealing with medical-related lawsuits usually do not get paid unless they win the settlement. Some lawyers request different percentages. Compare these requests and choose the lawyer that you would feel most comfortable with. Unfortunately, some lawyers might try to take advantage of an unknowing client. In order to protect your interests, and make sure you acquire the top-notch lawyer you deserve, do background research on lawyers before signing up.

4. Finally, don’t be afraid to take advice. If a friend, or colleague suggests a lawyer, don’t hesitate to check it out. If a friend refers you, he or she obviously has your best interests at heart, and so the lawyer is probably well qualified to take on your case. There are many groups out there for mesothelioma patients. If you or a loved one is in one of these groups, don’t hesitate to ask for advice from others who have mesothelioma. Advice is often taken for granted, but it is one of the most valuable things a friend can give.

mesothelioma is an awful disease, but there is compensation. This compensation can either be sought in a wrongful death suit, or while the patient is still living. It is advisable to find a lawyer as quickly as possible because there is often a statute of limitations on filing a lawsuit. The basic idea when searching for a mesothelioma lawyer is to be as educated as possible. Know what you want, and find a lawyer that is willing to help you in any way possible. Being well informed about your disease and potential lawyers will put you on the path to compensation.

About The Author

robert linebaugh writes about a variety of health topics, but focuses on mesothelioma. Learn more at http://www.justmeso.com.

robertlinebaugh@yahoo.com

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3 Types Of Debt Help Available Online - Consolidation Loans, Debt Management And Debt Settlement

goodstar — Mon, 17 Jul 2006 03:23:11 +0000

When it comes to consolidating debt, the internet offers three very good options. When you want to choose between a consolidation loan, debt management, or debt settlement, it is important to have an understanding of each one so you can choose the option that is best for your needs. Many people confuse these three services, but each one brings unique aspects to the job of helping consumers pay off their debts.

debt consolidation Loan

A consolidation loan takes all of your high interest credit card debts and turns them into one low interest loan. Often you have to be a home owner to qualify for this type of loan. The idea behind a consolidation loan is that with a lower interest rate, you will actually be able to afford to pay on the principle and that will help you to eventually get yourself out of debt.

debt Management

debt management companies work with consumers to help them learn to get control of their finances. The companies teach individuals how to make a budget and stick to it and often help them make a schedule to follow for paying off their debts. Most debt management companies are non profit and exist solely to help consumers get on track. These companies don’t offer loans or negotiations and seldom work with creditors. Instead they work with you so you will have the tools to secure your financial future.

debt Settlement

debt settlement companies actually go to your creditors on your behalf. The work hard to negotiate with credit card companies to reduce what you actually owe. They can often lower interest rates, have penalties and late payment fees removed, and even get credit card companies to lower the balance of what you owe. Many of them will set up a system where you pay them one amount each month and then they in turn make payments to your credit card companies.

About The Author:
Try using http://www.abcloanguide.com for a list of Recommended Credit Card debt consolidation Companies online. Their recommended companies are reputable and offer great service.

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10 Things to know when going to Tenancy Court

goodstar — Mon, 17 Jul 2006 03:20:43 +0000

1. When the Clerk or Judge calls the list of all matters scheduled, if the landlord is present in the courtroom and the tenant is not, the tenant will be “in default.” In that case, a judgment granting the landlord possession of the leased property may be entered against the tenant after the landlord has filed an affidavit proving a right to possession. Forms are available in the courthouse. If the tenant is present in the courtroom and the landlord is not, the landlord’s complaint will be dismissed without prejudice, meaning it may be filed again without penalty.2. In non-payment of rent cases, the tenant has the right to pay the full amount of rent into court (or with the clerk) by the close of the business day that the trial is set for and have the case dismissed.

3. A landlord may not evict a tenant based upon failure to pay any attorneys’ fees, costs or late charges, unless there is a lease provision which states that such fees are collectible as rent. Even if the lease allows such charges to be collected, the amount due as rent may be limited by a rent control ordinance, or in the case of public or federally-assisted housing, by federal law.

4. A landlord and tenant may decide to settle a case before court, but the decision is entirely voluntary. Any settlement should be reduced to writing and filed with the court. This will protect both parties in the event of a breach by the other. Most Courts require that the terms of the agreement be “placed on the record,” in open court. This is for the protection of both parties as well. A settlement agreement should be placed “on the record” as a matter of course if there are complex terms, or if the tenant is agreeing to vacate.

5. If the tenant wishes to challenge the allegations or accuracy of anything stated in the complaint, including the amount of rent due and owing, the tenant has a right to a trial before a judge.

6. The entry of a judgment for possession means that a landlord may request the court clerk issue a Warrant for Removal to a court Constable and the tenant can be evicted.

7. If a judgment for possession is entered, a Warrant for Removal may not be issued until three days later. The Warrant for Removal authorizes a Special Civil Part Officer (Constable) to lock out the tenant three days after the Warrant has been served on the tenant. Service of the Warrant is generally accomplished by the Officer leaving a copy at the tenant’s apartment. The lock out may not occur on a weekend or on a judicial holiday. Also, weekends and holidays are not counted in calculating the number of days before the Warrant can be signed or issued. This means that the tenant will be locked out at a minimum of eight days from the day judgment of possession is entered..

8. If a judgment for possession is entered after a trial, or because a tenant did not appear in court, or because the tenant agreed with the landlord to the entry of a judgment, a tenant has the right to apply to the court for a hardship stay at any time up to ten (10) days after the Warrant for removal has been executed (door locked!) The court may grant or deny the stay and the landlord has a right to be heard at the hearing on the application. A stay of the judgment means that the tenant will not be removed for as long as the stay is in effect. The court may grant a stay for up to a maximum of 6 months. During the period of the stay, the tenant must pay all back rent, pay the future rent on time, not disturb the neighborhood, and not damage the property. After the stay is over, the tenant may be evicted by the landlord through the Constable without any further judicial action unless the court grants an extension not to exceed 6 months from the date of judgment.

9. The court provides a list of social service agencies that may be able to help tenants find other housing or provide grant monies.

10. If a landlord and tenant agree to an eviction, a consent judgment for possession must be prepared. When this happens, the landlord must also submit, in writing, a sworn statement that one of the causes for eviction authorized in the eviction statute has occurred. This sworn statement must be filed before the court will accept the consent judgment. The sworn statement must also state that all fees and charges sought by the landlord are allowed by federal, state and local law, as well as the lease.

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About the Authour: bruce E. Gudin, Esq. is a Partner with the firm of Levy, Ehrlich & Petriello, P.C. headquartered in Newark, New Jersey. He can be reached at (973) 643-0040, ext. 104 or by e-mail at Bruce@LEP-lawyers.com.

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10 Quick Debt-Busting Tips

goodstar — Mon, 17 Jul 2006 03:18:37 +0000

Are you really frustrated?

Does it sometimes seem like the dollars are slipping through your fingers while the bills just seem to keep mounting up?

It’s a familiar feeling for many of us nowadays.

Sometimes, though, like most things in life, taking a step back from it all and starting to get some simple things right can make a huge difference on the big picture.

If your debts have been getting you down recently, here are 10 great ways to start slashing them today:

* First off, consider going on a “cash diet” for the next few months. Lock away some of those credit cards in a safe deposit box… or just cut them up altogether! By all means keep a low interest rate card for emergencies, but definitely rid your self of any store cards. Why? Because they encourage you to buy junk you don’t need at exorbitant rates of interest!

* If you’re having difficulties with any of your lenders, approach and deal with them personally. Not only will they appreciate your initiative, but will be far more responsive down the line if you’re having further repayment difficulties. The one thing that irritates them most is someone ducking and diving the problem.

* If you think you can afford to pay off any of your loans in one go, approach your lender and offer a reduced final settlement of any thing between 25 and 75%. Try and get the best deal. They can only say no, and might just say yes to get some money in.

When I was deep in debt, I was fortunate to pay off a bank overdraft in this way. In fact, they proposed straight off a settlement of 75%…not me!

* Ask for a promotion at work. Believe it or not, it’s estimated that one in two people who actually do this get one.

* Shop around to get the best deals on utilities like gas and electric…

A home energy audit can help save hundreds of dollars a year on heating bills. Ask your supplier who may be able to this for fr~ee or at very low cost.

Many countries now have websites where you can make sure you’re getting the best deal. Try doing a web search for “energy savings” plus your country.

A good US site for this is: http://snipurl.com/4vjo

If you’re in the UK, try checking out: http://www.uswitch.com

Also, make sure that any new appliances are energy efficient. This alone can save you hundreds of dollars a year.

* If you have a spare room, why not consider renting it out for a while. Many governments are now introducing great tax breaks if you do this. For instance, under the UK government’s ‘Rent a Room’ scheme, you can earn up to £4250 a year without paying tax!

* Check to see you’re paying the right amount of tax. You might possibly be due a refund. Every year governments rake in hundreds of millions in unclaimed tax.

You can get fr~ee software programs to help you with this. Try: http://www.taxact.com

* Buy cheaper insurance and investments. Shop around for the best deal on all types of insurance, including life, home, health, travel and pet cover. This could save you thousands over the coming years!

* Consider shopping more online. Online stores often give a discount as they don’t have the same overheads involved when selling offline. Search for those goods you want using a search engine or ask the retailers themselves if they have an online store. Here’s a great fr~ee resource to get you started: http://www.cmcaig.com/essentials.zip

* Have a direct debit set up so that your debt payments leave your account the day your paycheck is paid in. That way, you’ll be less tempted to spend it.

And when you do get out of debt, charge a direct debit to another account and pay in a regular monthly amount (as much as you can afford.) Call this your own personal wealth insurance. You’ll never regret it.

By adopting the above strategies, the light at the end of the tunnel will start shining that little bit brighter.

Instead of spending more than you earn, you’ll soon be earning more than you spend!

Good luck!

About The Author

colin mc caig is dedicated to helping others become debt fr~ee and start their own home-based business. Get his fr~ee 6-part mini-course. Learn the powerful secrets to becoming debt-fr~ee using only the money you have today. Send a blank email to: ==========>>>>>>>>>> mailto:colindebtfre@demandmail.com

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