Consumer Credit Counseling

Very often, consumers who are beginning to flounder financially and need help, have reached out to professional credit counselors for assistance in straightening out their finances and for help in improving their personal credit scores. There are also free consumer credit counseling services that may better suit your circumstances.

Interest rates on financed loans and credit card debt can become onerous and when you add in penalties and late fees, some people find themselves against the wall. Making minimum payments can get you deeper into debt and the only way to get the help you need is to seek out a reputable consumer credit counselor. They find themselves asking for help because they did not fully understand the system. An experienced consumer credit advisor can save you money and reduce your debt.

I am not going to make excuses for anyone getting into debt over his or her head, but I think it is fair to say that it would be practically impossible for anyone to compete in today's arena without the aid of a credit card. And that's where most folks get into trouble. Credit cards make it extremely easy for anyone to be an instant "big spender". Once you have your credit card, or line of credit with a bank, as long as you stay within your credit limit you can easily shop for big ticket items that you would otherwise have to pay for in cash.

You start out buying something small; maybe shoes or clothing, a couple of books, and the week's groceries. When you get the bill at the end of the month it is a couple hundred dollars. Hmm. But wait, what's that at the bottom of the statement? I only have to pay a minimum payment of $15.00? Not the $200.00 or $300.00 total? Boy, what a deal! I got my new clothes and fed the family for only $15.00. Wow! So you try it again; and the next month. Pretty soon you are up to a thousand dollars or more and you are only paying the minimum.

You saw that you only had to pay the minimum payment each month, but did you notice that you are now paying about 19.5% interest on the money your borrowed? A single credit card can charge an APR (annual percentage rate) of 15% to 20% on your unpaid balance. Did you take a look at the late fees? You can find them in the small print on the back of the statement. Try $25.00 to $40.00 for a late payment and possibly additional interest on your balance. If you don't take a hatchet to your credit card at this point, it could be all downhill from here. And it just seems to gets worse, never better.

If you do find yourself in a predicament like this you need professional help then you should really think of seeing a credit counselor or credit counseling service. Of course you can contact your creditors and try to work out some settlement to ease the burden of high monthly payments and fees. It is quite possible that you will be successful, for a time, but they will never let you off the hook. Usually, you can expect lower payment at higher interest rates and no relief from your debt. With lower payments and higher rates all around, you will never pay it off.

Borrowing more money to pay off your existing debt is a possibility and may also help with lower payments at a reduced interest rate. Depending on the amount it may require borrowing against equity such as your home. A credit counselor can offer you a range of plans and options to help you make the proper decision that is best for you.

A good credit counselor will know the ropes and have a few tips or tricks you would never know about that could enable him to not only negotiate reduced monthly payments and interest rates, but also reduce or have forgiven, a portion of your total debt.

Two areas where your professional credit counselor or counseling service can help you the most are in personal credit risk management and credit solutions to your particular problem. Once you have made your decision they will work with you and your creditor(s) to lower your interest rate, to reduce the amount of your total payments, and help strengthen your resolve to staying on a straight and narrow credit path.

That is the good news. But the bad news is that you could no longer have a line of credit and the settlement will be recorded on your personal credit history. You will have a devil of a time borrowing any more money. This is one of the advantages of having a professional credit counselor. He may be able to not only negotiate a better deal with your creditor(s); he may also be able to minimize the way the newly structured settlement is recorded so that your credit rating will not be severely impacted. He will also work with you to help you to improve your credit rating.

If at any time, you find yourself falling behind in your credit payments and feel that your repayment schedule is dictating your every action and is making a sea change in your lifestyle you should definitely make plans to visit a professional credit counseling service. They will know best how to advise you and how to get you back on the right track. They have a range of solutions and options that can help to lift you up out of the credit hole you have dug for yourself.

Take heart. There is an option that will fit your circumstance, too.

Jack Igan is a part-time writer and webmaster at http://www.bestcreditscoring.com. This website can help you to get better credit and to straighten out an already shaky credit report.

How Is the LEGAL SYSTEM Dishing Out JUSTICE in Your Town

Thankfully, most of us will never find out. That is a GOOD thing! However, if YOU are a small business owner it's something worth knowing before one day you get kicked in the back-side.

I've advocated for many years - ALWAYS invest in GOOD legal
counsel; a qualified Accountant [CPA]; and Insurance Agent. The
3 most important advisors to your business success.

A little research in our town opened my eyes BIG and WIDE to
how a small business owner can suddenly find himself/herself in
deep water without a paddle or pot to go.

Just a few of my recent discoveries --

Did you know.... town Sheriff can reach inside your bank account
and take ALL your money? Got a friend in town working for the
Sherriff's Dept? Ask him/her, they'll tell you how it happens and you may want to ask about their bonus, too.

It doesn't make any difference WHO YOU OWE or if checks will
start bouncing - it's part of our LEGAL justice system - allows the "hand-of-the-law" to take your stuff and leave you screwed.

Another disturbing happening - you can be sued or counter-sued
by someone and never know it until you get a "writ of execution"
from the Sheriff's department... when they come to sell ALL your property - equipment - and maybe leave you bankrupt as well as good vendors you own money to.

In our town you basically have to hire an Attorney to represent
you in court.... simply a "no option" decision unless you know it's fruitless when you're guilty hands-down... probably your town too.

What you may not know - your legal counsel is NOT required to
have malpractice insurance protection when he/she screws up the
process on your behalf. Most have it.... the problem with small
business owners is they look for the CHEAPEST not the BEST.

Courts DO NOT send notices by Registered mail either which means
they have NO proof of delivery, but WHO cares? YOU will. Only
your legal counsel supposedly gets the notices from the Courts and it's his/her responsibility to advise you or it's tough break for you when no one told you "courts in session" - and YOU'RE absent.

Have you ever heard of "treble" damages? It's amazing how this
can kick you into oblivion without a trace. Just know that it does happen to the finest of small business owners.

Did you feel it? The smasher coming when you thought everything
was peachy-le-creme - maybe your best year ever? If YOU don't
have your 3 Key Advisors yet, hire them soon. It may just
SAVE your CASH as well as your business future.

Don Monteith spent 32 years as co-owner of several franchises and a personnel/staffing business. Every year, his firm placed hundreds of job candidates in their dream job. Today, Don shares his business and career expertise through his newest websites on the Internet. Lots of FREE ideas - suggestions - ready for your perusal and study.

http://www.Career-Coaching-Central.com

http://www.HowToGetYourDreamJob.com

Interviewing How to Stay Out of legal Hot Water

Some interviewers ask great questions; others ask dumb questions; and, worst of all, some ask questions that can get them into legal hot water.

Every recruiter, hiring manager, executive, and department manager must realize that asking the wrong questions or making improper inquiries can lead to discrimination or wrongful-discharge lawsuits. These suits can be won or lost based on statements made during the interview process. To stay out of hot water:

Avoid these seemingly non-threatening questions.

• Are you a U.S. citizen? (Seeking national origin.


• Do you have a visual, speech, or hearing disability?


• Are you planning to have a family? When?


• Have you ever filed a workers’ compensation claim?


• How many days of work did you miss last year due to illness?


• What off-the-job activities do you participate in?


• Would you have a problem working with a female partner?


• Where did you grow up?


• Do you have children? How old are they?


• What year did you graduate from high school? (reveals age)

Steer clear of questions that would be considered discriminatory.

For example, you shouldn’t ask a female applicant detailed questions about her husband, children and family plans. Such questions can be used as proof of sex discrimination if a male applicant is selected for the position, or if the female is hired and later terminated. Older applicants shouldn’t be asked about their ability to take instructions from younger supervisors. Younger applicants should not be asked about working with older workers.

Don’t make binding contract statements.

When describing position, avoid using terms like permanent, career job opportunity or long-term. Suppose that an applicant is told: “If you do a good job, there’s no reason why you can’t work here for the rest of your career.” The applicant accepts the job and six months later is laid off due to personnel cutbacks. This could lead to a breach of contract claim where the employee asserts that he or she can’t be terminated unless it’s proven that he or she didn’t do a ‘good job’.

Ask the right kinds of interview questions.

Organizations that consistently hire top performers and also stay on the right side of the law use a behavioral-based interview process. First they conduct a job analysis audit to objectively identify the core competencies required for a given job. Then they customize a list of behavioral-based interview questions to identify those competencies. Finally, they not only train their recruiters, but also their executives, department managers, and hiring managers on legal and effective interview techniques. Here are some examples of questions that focus, not on the person, but the specific competencies that the job requires.

• "What has been a particularly demanding goal for you to achieve?" (This question taps into the candidate’s achievement orientation and requires them to explain the obstacle and their and actions to overcoming the obstacle).
• "What are the typical customer interactions you have in your present position?" Can you think of a time when you had to think quickly on your feet to solve a problem? (This question focuses on the candidate’s customer service skills and orientation).
• "Have you ever been in a situation where you have had to take on new tasks or roles? Describe this situation and what you did?" (This question allows you to probe into the candidate’s degree of flexibility).

By implementing the behavior interviewing, all organizations – small or large, private or public, for profit or non profit – can significantly reduce their exposure to employment practices claims and increase their potential for hiring top performers.

Marcia Zidle, the ‘people smarts’ coach, works with business leaders to quickly solve their people management headaches so they can concentrate on their #1 job ญ to grow and increase profits. She offers free help through Leadership Briefing, a weekly e-newsletter with practical tips on leadership style, employee motivation, recruitment and retention and relationship management. Subscribe by going to
http://leadershiphooks.com/ and get the bonus report “61 Leadership Time Savers and Life Savers”. Marcia is the author of the What Really Works Handbooks ญ resources for managers on the front line and the Power-by-the-Hour programs ญ fast, convenient, real life, affordable courses for leadership and staff development. She is available for media interviews, conference presentations and panel discussions on the hottest issues affecting the workplace today. Contact Marcia at 800-971-7619.

Illegal Immigration; What Can We Do About It

Some say that the people coming over our border are just trying to build a better life? Well not all of them, some come to join gangs, sell drugs or steal cars. Did you know that currently if you are caught three times you are barred for life from even visiting currently, in AZ over 35% of the Prison population is illegal aliens, that is a huge cost indeed.

One man stated; “How about creating Immigration posts along the border with Mexico and as the US deports the illegals, tell them to get in line to legalize themselves - not put them in jail along with hardened criminals?”

If we had bio-metric ID cards for those immigrating or on work visas, we could have a simple plan, but we need to be paid back transportation costs too. This should not be a burden on the taxpayer either. If someone committed a crime, deport for life, if we had our borders secure, we could do this, if not, well it would all be talk and basically that is where we have been all along.

We want tourism, trade, money flows back, as so much money has been sent there. Mexican Nationals travel here and Americans travel there, we reciprocate, these are good things. We have many zones where so many people come and go each day that those cities like El Paso are really “free zones” in other words the check points are after the city and often the border is a chain link fence with houses on both sides and shopping carts lined up for those who hop the fence to buy groceries so in that case, I wonder who we think we are kidding here really.

We need to take into consideration the issues of disruption also, those could be quite serious, but as it stands now, may as well have no border than this charade. We need a fair plan, streamline immigration and protect our country and the laws here. Besides during wartime let’s not do anything stupid either. Let’s consider this in 2006.

Lance Winslow

Intergrating Illegal Immigrants

Is this newly scripted and revealed Presidential program to deal with illegal immigrants by embedding them as "Guests Workers", more or less going to be best for America? That is really the main question. Not what is best for you, although you do vote that way, and perhaps you should, but putting the country first before self is an old habit of mine. Thinking this way, and being a Christian, causes me to do more thinking than is necessary, I suppose, however, it causes me also to see things from a different perspective. I can't help but ponder the direction this countries leaders are leading us. I am of course not comfortable with the "Just take them out to International waters and drop em!" solution. Nor am I about to accept the Presidential "Prescription". There is both a better way, yet human, while saving tax dollar First though, what is the end results of the Presidents new stated policy to deal with illegal aliens.

A massive influx of Illegal Immigrants is one thing. Hidden cash society is not a good thing when you look at it from the governments perspective. Not only are you missing out on controlling your borders,but all the tax money will be missed. And then you will have to provide the same services for illegal Immigrants as for any citizen of America. Welfare; Health; Human Services take a huge toll uponour country strength, but must be done to establish this countries health!

So what is the answer to this problem from the Administrative view?Giving "status" of different levels will create another level of citizenship.Having doubled the voting membership, one can only sense an outcome from the voting boothof both Catholic inspired social influences and a further melding of both countries. Is this the planned outcome?

If you allowed a huge influx of any socially similar group of legal or Illegal Immigrants, you would get the same results, that is, you would have to absorb within your present society all the baggage of; social, economical, as well as education, and philosophy, imported along with those persons. You see, this is America after all, and they must be given a vote, a say, in the direction of their new country. Catholic is no different than any other religion, in that all religions have inculcated within any person of its persuasion it own "brand" of looking at the
human experience. Thus, I am pointing this out in this vein. Political Planks, such as Birth Control, Abortion, and Immigration Law, would have serious impact upon this nation.

If anyone were to leave America for other lands, as the early English did historically wheneverthey came to this shore, the society and landscape of law and politics was changed to their idea of how things should be. Their "footprint" never changed, only the place of residence. Knowing this to be a human trait not yet extinguished, a "mixing" of Mexican and South American philosophy is to be expected. Can you accept this change? Would you want to? Too bad if you don't because it is now "Policy" due to the influx of persons who might vote in unison!

To heap tracking upon any Illegal Immigrants now having dual citizenship, AFTER they have been granted permission to stay in America. is itself ILLIGAL. Unless you heap it upon all of our citizens! You can then look forward to the soon coming day when you are tracked. Is the stepping up of patrolling the border with Mexico to keep the Illegal Aliens from coming into America? To keep the "Terrorist" from infiltrating? Or is it also to keep you Prisoner? I think only two of those questions is answered positive. You can stop some terror from infiltrating America. You can keep its citizens prisoner. But no patrolling will stop Illegal Immigration! I know this from past experience.

As a member of a River Patrol Section (Patrol Boat River PBR's), with the joint work of Seal Teams; Army and others was my assignment. Using night vision optics; Phyc war events; helicopters; hover craft; Swift Boats; spies; South Vietnamese Troops (who were supposed to know the terain);mortar batteries (with pre-set firing coordinatates); B 52 bombers; f16's and lots of other assets in place, (and remember, all were attended by trained experts),still we did not prevent thousands of boats filled with hundreds of thousands of VC from crossing the rivers! What makes you think the National Guard, stretched to the limits, will accomplish the same objective? Simply put, they can't! Then what can be done to stem this tide of humanity? Is the Presidents program the only solution? No!

To stop Illegal Immigration from Mexico in one day, and save tax dollars, while remaining human to others you need to;

1) Place a levy the Mexican Government $1,000 US dollars for every Illegal Immigrant caught crossing, or caught in this country. Place a bounty upon all Illegal Aliens that would reward anyone that called Authorities (Available to U.S. citizens only! Without hindering a person themselves, such action is against the law and you will be prosecuted for it!) about the whereabouts of any Illegal Immigrant!

2) AND subtract the $1,000 US dollars, or whatever the balance is of dealing with this persons illegal entry. That is, for an example, having to place him into prison for 10 years would lessen our Billions of dollars in aid we send to Mexico and South America by the amount it cost us to incarcerate the person and handle the case.

Now! How fast do you think the Mexican Government would place its own border patrol or National Guard along its own border with America? But of course, that is not the way to shift dollars from the American Taxpayer to the coiffeurs of Big Business. Buying hardware, such as Motion Detectors is! Bringing in millions of Illegal Aliens is!

Would such a program be implemented by any administration? Yes. If the people vote for it! And if the people, the voting populace, act quickly, before there is all to apt to be a negative vote from new dual citizens!

In summation, what we have here is not failure to communicate! Nor the power to think. Nor do we lack the power to contol our own borders to a greater degree, using political negotiation. What we have here is something very much different! What we have here is indeed a conspiracy between the President of Mexico and the President of the United States of America, and others, to the hurt of America! Intolerable.

later,
Dan Bunch
TX

copyright 2006 Dan Bunch

DAN BUNCH BIO
Copyright by Dan Bunch
------------------------
Dan Bunch, a Cherokee; Choctaw, and "Brass-Ankle" Melungeon, whose mother was a naturalized citizen born in Hong Kong. His father was born in Texas, a Cherokee-Melungeon, who served in the Army during WWII.

Dan Bunch grew up in Whitewright, Texas, where he played football, baseball, and boxing. He enlisted in the United States Navy Reserve while still a junior in high school.

He has had a multitude of experience in the business world. He has been in insurance, real estate, finance, and a builder of custom homes. He has always been a writer, and cartoonist. He attributes his interest in many subjects to his early career as a newspaper boy.

He married his high school sweetheart Gayle, with whom they have two children and five grandchildren.

Dan Bunch is a graduate of Grayson Co Jr. College, which he attended upon his return from Vietnam. He was a PO2'nd, crewmember aboard U.S. Navy River Patrol Boats, and is member of the DAV; and Veteran association.

Legal Nurse Consultant

Nurses with an interest for both emergency room trauma and courtroom drama may want to pursue a nursing degree in legal nurse consulting. Legal nurse consultants use their healthcare know-how in conjunction with an interest in the legal system to have a rewarding career in this combined profession.

Legal nurse consultants are commonly called by defense attorneys and prosecutors for their forensic or pharmacological familiarity to help determine difficult criminal or civil cases. More commonly, legal nurse consultants consult with attorneys and others in the legal field on medical malpractice, personal injury, workers' compensation and other healthcare-related cases. These legal specialists are responsible for interviewing clients, reviews medical records, researches and summarizes medical literature, helps evaluate liabilities and damages, assists with depositions, prepares exhibits, and identifies and retains expert witnesses.

Legal nurse consultants are registered nurses who have previously worked in emergency rooms, or in other disciplines, who then take on focused training at legal nurse consulting schools. These schools offer on-campus or online nursing degree coursework in legal ethics, personal injury cases, forensic science, and legal writing to name a few. There are also dedicated classes in legal issues about medical malpractice, auto accident injury, lower back pain, and product liability.

Certified legal nurse consultants are regularly contracted to work with private attorneys and corporate lawyers. However, many find work outside the courtroom. Some take positions with hospitals, insurance companies, and government agencies. Many are hired to help provide quality assurance at pharmaceutical firms and chemical companies. About half of all legal nurse consultants work on staff at law firms, insurance companies and other institutions, and their salaries are just about the same as those of hospital nursing administrators, who earn about $80,000, according to a 2004 Nursing Management salary survey. The other half of legal nurse consultants work independently and earn $100 to $150 an hour or more,

Jobs in the profession are expected to grow throughout the next 10 years as more and more companies introduce medications and devices that are federally approved, or reviewed in the courtroom or by government agencies. While formal training in legal nurse consulting is not required to practice, training and educational programs are available at universities, community colleges, and other private and public institutions.

Melissa Steele, College Degrees @ EducationGuys.com Writer.

Mexicans are Illegally Immigrating to US; Mexico is Losing Jobs to China

Illegal aliens and illegal immigration issues are currently in the news, as protestors march, demonstrate and boycott in the United States. Sixty percent of the illegal aliens in our nation come from Mexico. But why are they coming here in the first place? Well, we know that the President of Mexico Vincent Fox is telling them to come here of course, but why? Well you might be surprised at one of the many reasons.

You see, Mexico is losing lots of jobs to China, for instance shirts, which sell to our shirt making and insignia company can be bought now for $1.00 US which hurts Mexico’s ability to produce at $1.00 and sell at $2.00. In China their cost is $.20 to $.50; so those jobs in textiles are moving to China where before they were in GA and the South.

Before furniture was being made in the US now is being made in Mexico and China. All the jobs we lost in the US with NAFTA went to Mexico, such as Cars, Furniture, trailer welding, chemical making, etc. This is a big issue for China for jobs to help with middle class building and to Mexico with jobs.

Also understand the dynamics of problems with population growth in both countries, weather and droughts, etc. Here is an interesting population clock to check out the expansion of both areas.

http://www.panaga.com/clocks/clocks.htm

Shoes are another big issue for the interior of Mexico where previously many shoes were made in Mexico. Now the price difference is too vast to contemplate a reasonable competitive market between the two countries; China and Mexico. Target customer base is of course in the US with our strong Middle Class that is where the highest price point is, look at the price of Nike here.

Even at Wal-Mart you can buy a leather pair of no brand sneakers that are pretty nice for $13.00. I know I am wearing a pair and I had to laugh at my great luck finding these nice shoes for such a bargain. Of course Mexico is not alone as jobs here shift there and China, UK and Africa, etc. Consider these issues when discussing illegal immigration and the economics of labor supply.

Lance Winslow

Massive Illegal Alien Walkout and Boycott on Slowest Carwash Day

On May 1, 2006, which is a Monday the illegal aliens who come to the United States illegally by sneaking over the border to work are planning a huge boycott. The drug dealers and gang members from MS-13 who have also come over the border are not planning on taking the day off. They will still be outselling their drugs to our kids, committing violent crimes and stealing cars.

The other illegal aliens have promised to walkout. But did you know that Monday is the slowest carwash Day and I am told that many of the illegal aliens have talked to their bosses at the carwash and confirmed that would be okay not to come to work on the Monday without losing their job. Is that does about the biggest bunch of BS you have ever heard? Can you believe this, this May 1st boycott is a scam and public relations media event and it just pisses off many Americans.

We are also told that the landscaping businesses will not be working on Monday and many office-cleaning companies will not start work till midnight late when Tuesday starts, so you do not have to worry about your janitorial service. But the illegal aliens have also promised out to go to store and buy anything. You know this boycott and the nerve of the carwash owners to specify today at which the illegal aliens walkout is so bogus and just shows how bogus this entire issue it is. Consider this 2006.

Lance Winslow - Online Think Tank forum board. If you have innovative thoughts and unique perspectives, come think with Lance; www.WorldThinkTank.net/wttbbs/

Mexican Illegal Immigration is Nothing, in the Future What About China

Mexico only has about 120 million people and we are having trouble with the illegal immigration problem. Yet some say that this is nothing and when China starts forging ahead illegal immigration from China will skyrocket in the first world and especially in the United States.

In the future they say? But it is indeed it is happening already. Many fear that it could overwhelm our system and economic strength in some ways. Which is entirely possible giving the problem time to fester out, couple of decades, meanwhile China is the place to be or India in the coming decades.

Once China cleans up its environmental disaster, denounces its human rights violations, stops stealing proprietary rights and patents, stops selling weapons to nation states which support international terrorism, and about 16 other serious issues I should not get into here, then China will be a first world kick-butt nation right behind the United States of America, the greatest nation ever created in the history of the human species with a US Navy which puts the Zheng treasure fleet to shame even in comparing the time periods of then and now and the technologies of both periods. One observer of the future Chinese illegal immigration issue stated;

“What's even more interesting is first Mexico, then China, where will pale face go? I don’t really see how your going to stop evolution with the Chinese really start sending their numbers of people to the United States. And this will soon be happening.”

If you go to San Franchisco or Southern CA, there are many Chinese illegal immigrants being brought over in shipping containers, some are sold as sex slaves and others are used for the cheapest of all labor, generally by more wealthy chinese who put them to work in sweat shop settings. You can check out the bay area some time of the cities 40-mile radius from Long Beach harbor and see it out in the open. Too bad so many wish to use their people in this way? But many coming from China do not have it much better their, these human rights abuses here are probably less than there. Consider the future of illegal immigration migration and the demographics of the nation in 2006.

Lance Winslow

Legal Restrictions

A home-based business is subject to many of the same laws and regulations affecting other businesses and you will be responsible for complying with them.

There are some general areas to watch out for, but be sure to consult an attorney and your state department of labor to find out which laws and regulations will affect your business.

Zoning

Be aware of your city's zoning regulations. If your business operates in violation of them, you could be fined or closed down.

Restrictions on certain goods

Certain products may not be produced in the home. Most states outlaw home production of fireworks, drugs, poisons, explosives, sanitary or medical products, and toys. Some states also prohibit home-based businesses from making food, drink or clothing.

Registration and accounting requirements

You may need a - work certificate or a license from the state (your business's name also may need to be registered with the state), sales tax number, separate business telephone, and separate business bank account.

If your business has employees, you are responsible for - withholding income and social security taxes, and complying with minimum wage and employee health and safety laws.

Zoning

You've decided on your product or service. You've written your business plan and you're about to order business cards and stationery. Before going any further, call your city or town hall to obtain a copy of your zoning ordinance. If home-based businesses are allowed in your municipality, keep reading. If some or all are restricted, find out if a preexisting clause might apply or if you have to ask your zoning board for a variance. Once you learn that your business conforms to zoning regulations, it's important to keep up with any new proposals that may affect your situation. It's also a good idea to join business organizations and neighborhood groups in case you ever need to rally together to propose or oppose new regulations. Always maintain good relations with your neighbors. They could be a crucial factor should adverse regulations affecting your business ever be proposed.

Zoning is an area where an attorney can be very helpful. If in the unfortunate and unlikely event your business does not conform and you are given a cease and desist order, consult with an attorney who is familiar with the regulations and workings of the zoning and appeals boards.

Conclusion

Persuasion is the missing puzzle piece that will crack the code to dramatically increase your income, improve your relationships, and help you get what you want, when you want, and win friends for life. Ask yourself how much money and income you have lost because of your inability to persuade and influence. Think about it. Sure you've seen some success, but think of the times you couldn't get it done. Has there ever been a time when you did not get your point across? Were you unable to convince someone to do something? Have you reached your full potential? Are you able to motivate yourself and others to achieve more and accomplish their goals? What about your relationships? Imagine being able to overcome objections before they happen, know what your prospect is thinking and feeling, feel more confident in your ability to persuade. Professional success, personal happiness, leadership potential, and income depend on the ability to persuade, influence, and motivate others.

Kurt Mortensen’s trademark is Magnetic Persuasion; rather than convincing others, he teaches that you should attract them, just like a magnet attracts metal filings. He teaches that sales have changed and the consumer has become exponentially more skeptical and cynical within the last five years. Most persuaders are using only 2 or 3 persuasion techniques when there are actually 120 available! His message and program has helped thousands and will help you achieve unprecedented success in both your business and personal life.

If you are ready to claim your success and learn what only the ultra-prosperous know, begin by going to http://www.PreWealth.com and getting my free report "10 Mistakes That Continue Costing You Thousands." After reading my free report, go to http://www.PreWealth.com/IQ and take the free Persuasion IQ analysis to determine where you rank and what area of the sales cycle you need to improve in order to close every sale!

Making Up A News Story, Legally

Most businesses have their "heroes". They’re the trend-setters who lay the
foundation for the rest to follow.

In the publicity business, the real trend-setters are the Press Agents. They’re the
people who literally "create" news stories.

They’re people like George Evans. His company was hired to take a relatively
unknown Vegas lounge singer called Frank Sinatra and try to make him into a star.
Evans hired a dozen girls, at $5 each, to jump and scream "Oh Frankie, Oh Frankie"
and toss flowers at the stage. They met and practiced in the basement at the
Paramount Casino where Sinatra was performing.

Jack Keller, Evan’s West Coast partner explains what happened:

"We hired girls to scream when he sexily rolled a note. The dozen girls we hired to
scream an swoon did exactly as we told them. But hundreds more we didn’t hire
screamed even louder. Others squealed, howled, kissed his pictures with their
lipsticked lips, and kept him a prisoner in his dressing room between shows at the
Paramount. It was wild, crazy, completely out of control."

And it continued to be for many years. Sinatra was now an established star thanks
to a "media campaign" that only cost the promoters a total of $60 paid to a handful
of women to act crazy.

Press Agent Alan Abel staked his claim to fame came in 1962 when he formed The
Society for Indecency to Naked Animals (SINA). They produced a handful of "experts"
who claimed that it was degrading to animals to be forced to expose themselves in
public. SINA sported their own newsletter, board of directors and theme song.
Members received membership cards and free patterns for animal garments.

It may sound like a joke, but it sold. In their heyday, SINA claimed to have 40,000
members and claimed an income of $400,000. Their president, G. Clifford Prout, Jr.
did a national media tour. The prestigious San Francisco Chronicle ran a series of
humorous but "legitimate" front page stories on the group.

Later on a few of the Chronicle executives admitted they realized the entire thing
was a hoax, knowing that anything that had Abel’s name on it was probably a scam,
but they said the story was so entertaining and good that they ran it anyway. They
never admitted being duped, although they eventually ran a story exposing
president G. Clifford Prout as being Buck Henry, a comedy writer for "The Gary
Moore Show", but not before "Prout" appeared on "The Tonight Show (with Johnny
Carson)", "The Today Show" and "The Tomorrow Show".

Abel explains, "I realized that Buck or I could walk into any television studio with a
drawing of a horse wearing Bermuda shorts under our arm, and go right on the air,
whether television or radio and practically stop the show. The network news
programs were all interested in these "moral maniacs" who wanted to clothe
animals."

But the greatest promotional scam ever pulled over on the press may well have been
orchestrated by Joey Skaggs.

It all began with a simple, inconspicuous ad in the Village Voice. He explained later
that the entire hoax was perpetrated to prove how the press rarely actually checks
the facts on stories they run. The ad read:

"CATHOUSE FOR DOGS featuring a savory selection of hot bitches. From pedigree
(Fifi the French Poodle) to mutts (Lady the Tramp). Handler and Vet on duty. Stud
and photo service available. No weirdoes, please. Dogs only. By appointment. Call
254-7878."

He then staged a mini-documentary on what it was like "at the cathouse". Thirty
actor friends brought dogs. The cameras got close ups of male dogs trying to break
lose from their chains.

The ASPCA was incensed. Protests were staged and eventually an indictment was
filed against Skaggs for cruelty to animals. The media ate up the entire story.

He appeared on several national shows, and ABC even put together a documentary
that was nominated for an Emmy award on the cathouse. Everybody was
embarrassed when Skaggs walked into court with his thirty friends all explaining
there never had been a cathouse at all.

But that didn’t really matter, did it?

It’s all about creating an image in the minds of an audience.

Hopefully these stories might spark a few ideas that might make it easier to
promote what you do. Part of the trick is to stay away from the ordinary. It has to be
sensational and colorful. An auto dealer might consider having a local magician
make a car disappear.

A flower shop might start delivering flowers using a remote control robot (like the
ones now available at many of the higher end electronics shops in most malls).

Sid Grauman took an idea as old as concrete itself and made it into a worldwide icon
that’s lasted for over half a century when he had Mary Pickford and Douglas
Fairbanks put their footprints in cement to help celebrate the opening of his theater
in Hollywood on May 1, 1927. It’s a simple idea that made us feel close to the stars.

Want a book full of ideas just like these? The most fascinating book I’ve ever read
on the subject is Publicity Stunts by Candice Fuhrman It’s loaded, cover-to-cover,
with funny, fascinating, highly successful publicity stunts that have been
orchestrated over the years. They can be great templates for your publicity
campaigns.

If you can’t find it in your local bookstore check Amazon.com, Half.com or BN.com.
The last time I looked there were several copies available, all on sale.

With a little imagination, most any business can find ways to become a news story.

# # #

Paul Hartunian is widely considered the world’s leading authority on writing press
releases and getting publicity for any product, service, cause or issue.
Subscribe to Paul’s free publicity ezine “Million Dollar Publicity Tactics”. By going to
http://www.Hartunian.com/ezine. Also be sure to check out all the great free
publicity resources at his website http://www.Hartunian.com.
Also be sure to read the story of how Paul used press releases and publicity to
become the first person in history to really sell the world famous Brooklyn Bridge.
You can read the story at http://www.Hartunian.com/bridge.html.
You can reach Paul at (973) 857-4142 or by email at Paul@Hartunian.com.

Illegal Interview Questions How To Handle Them

Legal interview questions come in all shapes in sizes and local employment laws will dicate which ones are illegal. Typically, the following topics are off limits for interviews and are not considered to be legal interview questions:

Age

Marital Status

Information about your spouse or significant other

Race

Sexual orientation

Religion

Political affiliation

Country of birth

Physical disabilities

Your plans to have children

Other personal information that does not directly relate to the job

You should only be asked legal interview questions during an interview but let’s face it, chances are good that you will run into an interviewer at some point that will ask you one of more of these not-so legal interview questions. You can choose to answer the question(s) in one of three ways:

1. You could choose not to answer the question which will probably ruin your chances at the job.

No, this isn’t fair but it is often the reality if you choose this route. I’m not sure I’d want to work for a company that hires managers who treat people this way anyways to be honest.

2. You could choose to answer the question.

In other words, you tell the interviewer the honest answer to the question.

3. You could choose to ignore the question and handle the possible reason for asking such a question.

If for example you were asked your age and you are young, you might respond by saying that you are experienced beyond your years if you suspect the interviewer feels you are too young for the position.

If you are more experienced and feel that the interviewer might believe you to be too old for the position, you might suggest that your experience brings a unique insight to the role that a less experienced candidate couldn’t bring.

In other words, you politely let the interviewer know that whatever concern they might have is not a valid one.

One thing to keep in mind when handling these sorts of questions:

Not all interviewers who ask not-so legal interview questions are doing it for insincere reasons.

Interviewers are human, too!

No, it is not right to ask you about your country of origin (for example) but they might be genuinely interested to learn more about you. If you meet someone on the street and are casually talking, it probably wouldn’t seem out of the ordinary to ask each other such questions and sometimes it is hard for an interviewer to remember that some questions are simply not ones they should include in an interview setting.

If they are simply trying to make conversation with you, it can be difficult to consistently stick to asking legal interview questions and they might not intentionally mean to do something wrong so be careful how you react to such questions. Use common sense when responding.

Just ensure that you are aware what possible questions you would not feel comfortable answering and be certain that you know how you’ll handle each question should one arise.

Carl Mueller is an Internet entrepreneur and professional recruiter who wants to help you find your dream career.

Free newsletter: Separate yourself from other job searchers by signing up for his free monthly newsletter: http://www.find-your-dream-career.com/dream-career-finder.html

Free 5-day course: Sign up for The Effective Career Planner, Carl’s free 5-day course: http://www.find-your-dream-career.com/effective-career-planner.html

Please feel free to reprint this article in its entirety in your ezine or on your website but please don’t change any of the content and ensure that you include the above bio that shows my website URLs.

Legal Steroids - The Alternatives

Steroids have been illegal for some time now and everyone knows the potency of the real thing but legal steroids and their alternatives are quickly catching up as a viable alternative to the black market illegal steroids.

Over the last few years the serious body builders have been using the alternative legal steroids and achieving amazing results. Legal steroids like Androstenedione ( andro), 1-AD,1-test and 4-Androstenedione are the closest thing to real steroids and these are available legally. These alternative steroids when used correctly are both a safe and effective way to enhance and boost strength, energy and muscle recovery.

The first legal steroid that body builders used and promoted was Androstenedione. This is also known as a prohormone and was first used by East German athletes to enhance their performance and was their secret weapon for some time.

Andro works in the following way. As a result of an enzyme conversion in the liver Andro exerts an anabolic effect. The enzyme in the liver acts on the molecular structure of Andro and from this reaction it converts, in a completely natural process, the andro into testosterone.

Since the introduction of Andro which was considered to be the first steroid alternative there have been many other related products over the last few years. There has and is much debate whether increasing the amount of Andro will increase the effect but as with any drug it is dangerous to start altering the dosage unless supervised by qualified people.

On January 20th, 2005 the US Federal Gorvenment's ban on prohormones took effect. This included the Androstenedione ( andro), 1-AD. Body builders must now look to other alternatives to enhance their programs.

DHEA Pre-Cursor Hormone is one of the alternatives at the present. As a pre-cursor hormone, it leads to the production of other hormones and as a supplement has shown some awesome results. DHEA supplements act as an anti aging by maintaining the levels of DHEA that occur naturally in the body that decrease as we get older.

Anyone considering using a product containing DHEA should first check the laws of their own country as they vary from one country to another.

Beth Black is the webmaster for Keyword Articles that offers free keyword targeted articles. Keyword articles are one of the most effective ways of promoting your website and attracting targeted traffic. http://www.keyword-articles.info

Illegal Interview Questions -- Be Prepared

I’ll quickly cover the following:

A) Why Employer Ask Illegal Interview Questions.

B) Examples of Illegal Interview Questions.

C) Tips on How To Respond to Illegal Interview Questions.

******

FACT

******

U.S. law prohibits certain types of questions and you are by no
means required or obligated to answer these questions. These
questions are prohibited for a reason: to keep employers
from unfairly trying to weed you out as a possible employee.

A) WHY EMPLOYERS ASK ILLEGAL INTERVIEW QUESTIONS.

=================================================

The interview is where you get your chance to sell yourself
directly to the employer. During the interview the employer
is obviously trying to learn more about you and how you may or
may not fit in the company.

The main reason why an employer might purposely slip in some
illegal questions is basically to try and get information to
keep you from getting a job. Most illegal questions revolve
around personal information and asking them is usually not
related to the job and is often discriminatory in nature.

Another reason some employers ask illegal questions is because
they just don’t know any better. Many interviewers are not
trained at all and simply don’t know what is legal versus
illegal. Please keep this in mind, it may just be a poorly
trained, inexperienced or just curious interviewer and not
meant to be harmful or discriminatory at all.

B) EXAMPLES OF ILLEGAL INTERVIEW QUESTIONS.

===========================================

Illegal questions generally fall into 4 categories:

---------------------------------------------------

1. Disabilities & Physical Skills

2. Personal Background

3. Race, Creed, or Color

4. Family & Relationship Items

10 Sample Illegal Questions:

----------------------------

1. How tall are you?

2. Are you a US Citizen?

3. How old are you?

4. Are you really a man?

5. Are you Chinese or Japanese?

6. What religion are you?

7. Have you ever filed for bankruptcy?

8. Have you ever been arrested?

9. Are you married?

10. How many children do you have?

C) TIPS ON HOW TO RESPOND TO ILLEGAL INTERVIEW QUESTIONS.

==========================================================

First and foremost, avoid reacting in a hostile fashion –
remember that you can always decide later to decline the
job offer. Your goal during the interview is to try and
get the job offer.

Response 1:

-----------

Go ahead and answer the question. If you don’t feel
uncomfortable and you think your answer is in your favor, why worry? Go ahead and answer the question and make no mention
that you think its improper or illegal. Just remember that you run the risk of harming your candidacy if you give an answer not
favorable to what the interviewer has in mind.

Response 2:

-----------

Refuse to answer the question. You are within your rights
but in a delicate and sensitive area with regards to the
potential job offer. You can say politely that you don’t
feel comfortable answering the question and ask to move on.
You may even want to mention to the interviewer that the
question is illegal and doesn’t pertain to the job. The
key here is to be as tactful as possible. But keep in mind,
you may come across as confrontational or not a “team player”
in the eyes of the interviewer.

Generally speaking, its better not to confront or debate the
interviewer about the legality of a question. But if you have
any uncertainty about the questions, you should be alert to
any pattern of discrimination…especially if you notice several
illegal questions. Try and remember the questions and speak
the employer’s HR director and get answers to what may have
happened.

Sincerely,
Nathan Newberger,
Managing Editor
http://www.WorkTree.com
"Helping You Find More Jobs Faster"

Nathan Newberger is the job and career expert at http://www.WorkTree.com. WorkTree.com is the largest job search portal in the world and has been online since 1999. Nathan has over 10 years experience as a both a recruiter and career counselor.

Is Using A Credit Repair Agency Legal

Is using a credit repair agency legal? Yes, but the government and the three credit bureaus like to muddy the water on this issue, and they’re partly correct. There are a tom of companies, people, and websites that say they can repair your credit and MOST of them are scams that will only leave you pockets a little emptier. Before using any credit repair company you should do and exhaustive research about what they are offering, how they are offering it and what (if any) are their guarantees. Be leery if ANY company offering you a new credit file, Perfect credit or some “Pie-in-the-sky” timeframes. Credit repair takes time, but with the right firm, that time can be shortened drastically.

Credit repair agencies are normally (though not always) unable to clean your credit. My initial search on repairing my credit was with one of these agencies. They charged me $29 and said my credit would be perfect within three months. Three months later I was out of $29 dollars and my credit was exactly the same. I was angry and disappointed to say the least. Ohh… and the agency mysteriously disappeared… no website, no number, nothing!

It took a while before I finally stumbled upon a “firm” that looked legitimate. I did extensive research and then waited another year before I actually signed up. The difference with this “firm” is tat they were a real legal firm that had tons of proof to back up their amazing clams. I followed their instructions (though I did so half-assed) and six-months later my score had jumped substantially and I had numerous items on all three of my reports from each bureau deleted. I used them for two more months before it became evident that they had done all they could. While they “cleaned” my credit, that was just the beginning to getting my score to the point it’s at now.

Written by Mark Redd at http://www.nocreditnolife.com

Jobs For Illegal Aliens to Prevent from Getting Caught

If you are an illegal alien then and you have illegally immigrated to the United States then chances are that public perception is indeed making it more tough on you to hold a job in America. So what can you do now that you are here in the United States after illegally smuggling yourself into our country simply to find a better life.

Well first you will need to hide out and you will need to make money. But you will need to be careful to stay in areas where no one will say anything and you can blend in. These are same strategies that International Terrorists Cells and Drug Dealers or even MS-13 Gang Members use too. They go to areas where they can blend in and try to act normal when they are not committing a crime.

As an illegal alien you must do the same thing. But where can you go and where can you work? Well luckily much of the US Population is Hispanic so you can blend in and simply hope no one asks you for your identity. Secondly, you can go to a Car Wash to get a job as car washes often hire illegal aliens and no one seems to care, notice or call them in for violations? I do not know why this is but I do know it is so.

Another place you can work is in a restaurant because you can work in the back preparing food where no one will see you. This also makes sense for you if you have TB or Hepatitis, because most smaller restaurants and some chains will not screen you for disease as you pass it on to unsuspecting customers who buy the food there. So, if you are in this country illegally you need to find equally law-breaking businesses who will hire you. Consider this in 2006.

"Lance Winslow" - Online Think Tank forum board. If you have innovative thoughts and unique perspectives, come think with Lance; http://www.WorldThinkTank.net/wttbbs/

Jobs For Illegal Aliens to Prevent from Getting Caught

If you are an illegal alien then and you have illegally immigrated to the United States then chances are that public perception is indeed making it more tough on you to hold a job in America. So what can you do now that you are here in the United States after illegally smuggling yourself into our country simply to find a better life.

Well first you will need to hide out and you will need to make money. But you will need to be careful to stay in areas where no one will say anything and you can blend in. These are same strategies that International Terrorists Cells and Drug Dealers or even MS-13 Gang Members use too. They go to areas where they can blend in and try to act normal when they are not committing a crime.

As an illegal alien you must do the same thing. But where can you go and where can you work? Well luckily much of the US Population is Hispanic so you can blend in and simply hope no one asks you for your identity. Secondly, you can go to a Car Wash to get a job as car washes often hire illegal aliens and no one seems to care, notice or call them in for violations? I do not know why this is but I do know it is so.

Another place you can work is in a restaurant because you can work in the back preparing food where no one will see you. This also makes sense for you if you have TB or Hepatitis, because most smaller restaurants and some chains will not screen you for disease as you pass it on to unsuspecting customers who buy the food there. So, if you are in this country illegally you need to find equally law-breaking businesses who will hire you. Consider this in 2006.

"Lance Winslow" - Online Think Tank forum board. If you have innovative thoughts and unique perspectives, come think with Lance; http://www.WorldThinkTank.net/wttbbs/

Legal Assistants and Paralegals - The Future Is Bright

One of most common ways to become a legal assistant or paralegal is through a community college program that leads to an associate's degree. Another common route; primarily for those who already have a college degree, is through a program that leads to a certification in paralegal studies.

Many legal assistants and paralegals have associate degrees in paralegal studies or a bachelor's degree paired with a certificate in paralegal studies. Currently, a small number of schools offer bachelors' or masters' degrees in paralegal studies. A few employers train paralegals on the job, hiring college graduates with no legal experience or promoting experienced legal secretaries. Others have gained experience in a technical field useful to law firms, like tax preparation for tax and estate planning, criminal justice, nursing or health administration for personal injury practice.

With 250+ paralegal programs approved by the American Bar Association (ABA) and an estimated 1,000 colleges and universities, law schools and proprietary schools offering formal paralegal training programs - the field is highly represented. Although many programs don't require ABA approval, graduating from an ABA-approved program can enhance one's employment opportunities - it's a credibility thing for some employers.

Program admission requirements vary greatly - from a few college credits or courses to a bachelor's degree for others, to high school graduates, those with legal experience, passing a standardized test, to simply having a favorable personal interview.

Many legal assistant and paralegal programs include 2-year associate degree programs, 4-year bachelor degree programs and certificate programs that can take as little as a few months to complete. Most certificate programs provide intensive and specialized paralegal training for individuals who already hold college degrees. On the other hand, associate and bachelor degree programs usually combine paralegal training with courses in other academic subjects.

Obviously, the quality of paralegal training programs can vary with the higher quality programs usually including job placement services.

Courses range from introducing students to the legal applications of computers, including how to perform legal research on the Internet to more and more paralegal training programs offering internships to assist students in gaining practical experience by working for several months in the real world. Internships could be with a private law firm, the office of a public defender or attorney general, a bank, a corporate legal department, a legal aid organization or a government agency. Clearly, the experience gained is an asset when one is seeking a job after graduation and for many can lead to a job with the company they interned with.

Most employers don't require certification but earning a voluntary certificate from a professional society does have its advantages when it comes to finding a job. The National Association of Legal Assistants (NALA) has established standards for certification that requires various combinations of education and experience. Paralegals who meet their standards are eligible to take a 2-day examination, offered three times a year at one of several regional testing centers. Those who pass can then use the Certified Legal Assistant (CLA) designation. NALA also offers an advanced paralegal certification for those who want to specialize in specific areas of the law.

The Paralegal Advanced Competency Exam offers professional recognition to legal assistants and paralegals that have earned a bachelor's degree and have at least 2 years of experience. Once they pass this test they can use the Registered Paralegal (RP) designation.

Legal assistants and paralegals must have the ability to document and present their findings and opinions to their supervising attorneys. They also need to understand legal terminology, have good research and investigative skills and be able to do legal research using a computer and the internet. They also need to stay abreast of new developments in the laws that affect their area of expertise. The most common way many legal assistants and paralegals expand their knowledge is by participating in continuing legal education seminars.

Because legal assistants and paralegals deal with the public on an ongoing basis they need to be "shining examples" of ethical standards for the legal profession. The National Association of Legal Assistants, the National Federation of Paralegal Associations and a few States have established ethical guidelines for them to follow.

Employment Outlook

Legal assistants and paralegals held about 224,000 jobs in 2004 with about 70% being employed by private law firms; most of the remainder worked for corporate legal departments and various levels of government. Within the Federal Government, the U.S. Department of Justice is the largest employer, followed by the Social Security Administration and the U.S. Department of the Treasury. A small number of paralegals own their own businesses and work as freelance legal assistants, contracting their services to attorneys or corporate legal departments.

As a whole, employment in this field is projected to grow much faster than average. The current trend of employers trying to reduce costs by hiring paralegals to perform duties formerly carried out by lawyers is expected to continue into the foreseeable future. As a result, employment opportunities are projected to grow much faster than average for the next 10 years or so.

As in all fields, compensation varies greatly due to the high number of variables but in general, salaries depend on education, training, experience, the type and size of employer and the geographic location of the job. As a whole, legal assistants and paralegals who work for large law firms or in large metropolitan areas earn more than those who work for smaller firms or in less populated regions. In addition to salary, many also receive bonuses. In mid 2004, the average salary for all legal assistants or paralegal was a tad over $39,000 per year.

This article may be reproduced only in its entirety.

Kevin Erickson is an entrepreneur and writer. For other articles he's written visit: Paralegal Schools | Travel Nursing | Medical Transcription

Planning Permission Tips UK - Illegal Building Works - Is there an Upside

Many times throughout the year we are called in to assist people who have got into trouble by completing building works without Council permission. This can be either Planning or Building Regulations - often both. Guess when this 'illegal' building works is usually exposed - Right at the time when the home owner is under the most pressure & exposure to other abortive fees - you guessed it - WHEN THEY ARE ABOUT TO MOVE HOME!

I am amazed at the blinkered approach most homeowners have to completing building works without the required council consent. They just bury their heads in the sand & think that it will not be exposed - HOW WRONG MOST HOMEOWNERS ARE.

They seem to forget that most purchasers surveyors just love it when they are able to expose any illegal building works that may assist the purchaser in pulling out of the sale (strange I here you say) - you see they get paid for their survey report irrespective of the homes condition & by exposing illegal building works they obtain a 'get out of jail free card' - in other words, the purchaser is likely to pull out of the sale & not rely on the contents of the survey and thereby the surveyor reduces their exposure to negligent claims from the purchaser when some other form of defect may be discovered later on.

Not only this, but illegal building works also exposes the homeowner to clever purchasers who then use this aspect to literally blackmail the homeowner into accepting a vastly reduced offer price. If you have already invested in reciprocal professional fees, moving costs and other commitments you suddenly become what the trade calls a 'motivated purchaser' and likely to accept a far lower offer due to your personal commitments and desires.

You are then faced with a panic - to resolve the situation by applying for retrospective consents which will have a financial cost and loss of time implication thereby at high risk of losing your current purchaser.

HOWEVER, all that said - we do need to place a little perspective on the situation for some balance. Firstly it is perhaps a bit unfair to call the works 'illegal'. A better term would be 'un-approved' - remember this is not criminal legislation we are dealing with.

Also, there is a time element that affects the seriousness of the breach of control. Generally speaking, if the works have been completed for 4 years or longer then the Planning Department cannot normally insist on a retrospective permission or require the works to be removed. Building Control on the other hand have a shorter period for compliance which is normally two years. After this time (and provided the works are not an obvious risk to health and safety) they can only normally make a note within your property file. They are normally unable to insist that the works are retrospectively approved after this time.

As a guide, if you fall into this category, the longer the un-approved works have been in place, the easier it is for surveyors and purchasers to accept the works 'as is' without too much detriment to the properties value. The reason for this is clear - someone has to take a view that the works are not going to be removed or fall apart after a period of time.

Most people are surprised to find that both the Planning Department & the Building Control Department have formal applications to regularise the un-approved building works. The risk for the homeowner is how much more works are required to the property to make it comply. Often building works have to be demolished & reinstalled to the approved standard.

Therefore, any homeowner fully aware that they have completed un-approved building works and soon to move home should now put into action a 'regularisation plan' to avoid the 'eleventh hour' panic described above. Seeking early professional advice & guidance from a professional Building Designer or surveyor should be your first port of call rather than approaching the council direct.

Our 'Maximum Build Planning Guide' explains further the issues involved when installing un-approved building works.

Our 'Maximum Build Planning Guide' explains further the issues involved when extending or developing a property for planning permission.

http://www.planning-approval.co.uk

Love Illegal Aliens as You Would a Neighborhood Dog Who Killed Your Cat

Love thy neighbor, embrace illegal aliens and illegal immigrants and give us your poor; hey, wait a minute not so fast. Some citizens of the United States of America decry the 24 million illegal aliens who entered our country by sneaking in.

Many Americans are upset that 33 percent of all violent criminals in federal prisons are illegal aliens. Many people are rather miffed by the fact that we have illegal aliens and illegal immigrants are now marching in our streets in protests. We are told that we must love illegal aliens and treat them with respect as if they were American citizens. Why, they disrespect everything we are about and violate our laws.

Well, all respect from me with right out the window, as I watched the illegal immigrants carrying U.S. flags upside down and marching in our streets in protests, while chanting anti-American slogans in Spanish. The illegal aliens and illegal immigrants who have no right to be in our country also have no rights to free speech or free gathering to protest our government, my country or tell us how to run the United States of America. One American said today at a coffee shop

“If we wanted a Shet-hole like Mexico, we would have created that. Frankly, we were looking for something a little more than that and so we have built the greatest single civilization ever created in the history the human species and we are not about to turn the United States of America into a little Mexico. Get a life. Sure, I love illegal aliens as much as I love the neighborhood dog that broke through my fence and killed my grandmother's cat. Don't tell me how to run my country; we are doing just fine, why not go fix your own country.” Mr. M. Caldwell. Perhaps we might consider this in 2006.

Lance Winslow - Online Think Tank forum board. If you have innovative thoughts and unique perspectives, come think with Lance; www.WorldThinkTank.net/wttbbs/

Legal Structures

One of the most important decisions entrepreneurs make is how to legally set up their businesses. The choice can be a wise move or a costly mistake with regard to taxes paid, protection from liability, and the amount of resultant flexibility in running the operation.

The initial choice of a business form, even if it achieves optimum results in the start-up phase, may require adjustment or alteration as the business matures. It is important to periodically re-examine the appropriateness of the type selected. Below is a description and a comparison of the advantages and disadvantages of each form of organization.

Sole Proprietorship

For an individual who wants to keep the operation small and simple, this is the easiest, least costly, and least regulated type of business to enter into. A sole proprietorship can be formed by just finding a location and opening the door for business. There are the usual fees for registering your business name and for legal work in changing zoning restrictions and obtaining necessary licenses. Attorneys' fees will be less than for other forms of incorporation because less document preparation is required.

The sole proprietor has total responsibility and control, and can hire any number of employees who may even be paid a percentage of the profits as wages. The owner is personally liable for all claims, taxes and debts against the business, as well as for any injuries caused by or to employees during their employment. The sole proprietor is entitled to all profits made in the business, which must be included in the individual income tax return. If a person has assets, or is developing an asset base, this form of business exposes the individual to litigation.

Advantages

-Easiest to get started

-Greatest freedom of action

-Maximum authority

-Income tax advantages

-Social Security advantages

Disadvantages

-Unlimited liability

-Death or illness endanger business

-Growth limited to personal energies

General Partnership

A partnership can be formed by simply making an oral agreement between two or more persons, but such informality is not recommended. It is wise to have an attorney draw up an agreement among all partners, clearly stating the specific duties and rights of each of them, to help resolve any future disputes. Almost any type of management and profit-sharing arrangement can be agreed upon.

Each partner is an "agent" for the partnership and can individually hire employees, borrow money and operate the business. A partnership is not a separate legal entity, even though required to report its income on a separate, informational tax return (Form 1065), but profits made must be included in each partner's individual tax return.

The important thing to keep in mind regarding a general partnership is that each partner is personally liable, just as in a proprietorship, for debts and taxes to the extent that personal assets can be subject to attachment and liquidation if the partnership itself cannot satisfy creditors' claims.

Advantages

-Two (or more) heads better than one

-Additional sources of venture capital

-Better credit rating than corporation

Disadvantages

-Hazy line of authority

-Difficult to get rid of bad partner(s)

-Death, withdrawal or bankruptcy of one partner endangers business

Corporation

Think of a corporation as legally separate from its shareholders. This is the most important feature distinguishing it from a partnership or proprietorship. It is definitely best to get an attorney to take care of the formalities of setting up a corporation, even in the case of a small family corporation where an attorney can help prevent hard feelings and squabbles. This type of business is usually the most costly to form, especially if organizational problems are complex.

People usually incorporate to limit personal liability for the debts and liabilities of the business. However, with many new businesses this limit of personal liability applies only to judgments brought against the company for negligence, defective products, or frivolous suits. In fact, the owner(s) of a new business will usually remain liable for the repayment of loans and other debts because most major creditors, especially lenders, will try to limit their risks by requiring owners to pledge their personal assets as security for a debt. In some cases, an officer or employee of a corporation may also be personally liable for failure to withhold taxes. A corporation is a separate legal entity and a more structured form of business. It can continue to function even without the existence of original ownership or other key individuals. It also has advantages in terms of enabling employees to participate in various types of insurance and profit sharing. A corporation has more flexibility in terms of different approaches to taxation.

Advantages

-Limited liability for stockholders

-Continuity

-Transfer of shares

-Easier to raise capital

-Possible to separate business functions into different corporations

Disadvantages

-More expensive to launch and maintain

-Gives owner a false sense of security

-Heavier taxes

-Power limited by Charter

-Less freedom of activity

-Legal formalities

Conclusion

Persuasion is the missing puzzle piece that will crack the code to dramatically increase your income, improve your relationships, and help you get what you want, when you want, and win friends for life. Ask yourself how much money and income you have lost because of your inability to persuade and influence. Think about it. Sure you've seen some success, but think of the times you couldn't get it done. Has there ever been a time when you did not get your point across? Were you unable to convince someone to do something? Have you reached your full potential? Are you able to motivate yourself and others to achieve more and accomplish their goals? What about your relationships? Imagine being able to overcome objections before they happen, know what your prospect is thinking and feeling, feel more confident in your ability to persuade. Professional success, personal happiness, leadership potential, and income depend on the ability to persuade, influence, and motivate others.

Kurt Mortensen’s trademark is Magnetic Persuasion; rather than convincing others, he teaches that you should attract them, just like a magnet attracts metal filings. He teaches that sales have changed and the consumer has become exponentially more skeptical and cynical within the last five years. Most persuaders are using only 2 or 3 persuasion techniques when there are actually 120 available! His message and program has helped thousands and will help you achieve unprecedented success in both your business and personal life.

If you are ready to claim your success and learn what only the ultra-prosperous know, begin by going to http://www.PreWealth.com and getting my free report "10 Mistakes That Continue Costing You Thousands." After reading my free report, go to http://www.PreWealth.com/IQ and take the free Persuasion IQ analysis to determine where you rank and what area of the sales cycle you need to improve in order to close every sale!

HOLY SMOKE! Was THAT An Illegal Question

Let's start out by saying that you should not be too worried about being asked an illegal interview question for devious, underhanded purposes. In most cases the interviewer is making innocent conversation, or trying to find out if you are going to be able to perform the essential duties of the job.

Keeping that in mind, let's look at an example. Let's say that you see a job posting for a job that requires work on Sunday mornings. Let's also say that your resume states that you graduated from a prestigious Catholic University, and lists your hobby as President of your church's Young Professionals group. Assuming that your other experience on your resume makes you qualified for the job, would you consider it fair if the hiring manager overlooked your resume because he or she assumed that you'd be in church on Sunday mornings? Certainly not!

The law states that you cannot be discriminated against because of your age, race, gender, religion, sexual orientation, or household situation (i.e. having kids). This law is in place to ensure that all candidates get a fair shot at the job based solely on their ability to do the job. The interviewer cannot make unfair assumptions about how your lifestyle in any one of the above categories will affect your ability to do your job.

Following the example above, when you applied to the position, you knew that the job required Sunday morning hours, and don't have a problem with that. Unfortunately you won't know if the hiring manager is consciously or unconsciously deciding to not bring you in for an interview based on the religious references in your resume. Also, discrimination cases at the hiring stage are very, very difficult for a candidate to win because there isn't a lot of hard and fast evidence to win a case.

What you can do to protect yourself and head off their concerns is to address the issue prominently in the cover letter. State that you did see that the job included Sunday morning hours, and that you have no concerns with that work schedule.

Another common issue is the concept of kids. In some employers' minds, they have big concerns that your kids will become the reason why you are late every morning, and have to leave early when they get sick. Unfortunately, this is because a now former employee who abused the system with their childcare needs has probably put this concept in the interviewer's mind. It is unfair of an employer to discriminate against you because you have kids. However, you need to address their underlying concern, which is that your kids will cause you to be unreliable. Because you don't list them on your resume, the topic of your kids will probably not come up unless you or the interviewer specifically brings it up. Knowing that this could be an area of unconscious discrimination, you should NOT bring up the topic. If an interviewer does ask, you simply need to respond that you do have kids, but you are fortunate to have reliable daycare and a backup plan to take care of them when they are sick. That answer addresses the interviewer's concerns, shows that you have the situation under control and are capable of handling the responsibility of this job.

The name of the game here is to be aware of some prejudices an employer could have against your lifestyle and be prepared to show them that you are in no way a stereotypical "problem" employee. Where it is possible, you don't want to open the door to have to defend yourself on the basis of your age, race, sexual orientation, gender, religion or household situation. However, when you are preparing for the interview, have an answer in the back of your mind should the issue arise that shows that you are a skilled candidate for the position.

ฉ Red Inc. Melanie Szlucha. You can republish this information as long as the paragraph below is included exactly as it appears.

Melanie Szlucha has been a hiring manager for over 10 years. She founded Red Inc.(http://www.redinc.biz) two years ago to help people become more relaxed and prepared during the job interview process. Combining presentation and communication skills with her experience in conducting job interviews, she is able to coach job applicants through landing their perfect job. Ms Szlucha is also a job interview forum moderator on the site careercube.net. She is available for individual coaching, classes for employers and interviewees and can be contacted on her website or melanie at target="_new" href="http://www.redinc.biz">redinc.biz

Legal Process Outsourcing (LPO) Addressing Security Concerns

A major concern for law firms that are considering whether or not to take the legal process outsourcing (LPO) plunge is that of data protection. Client confidentiality is so rooted in the legal culture, and is such a fundamental aspect of professional legal ethics, that the mere notion of a pair of eyes glimpsing data from across the Atlantic and Pacific oceans sends shivers up the spines of many lawyers. Yet the ironic part is that there is a group of entities whose obsession with security issues may make that of attorneys seem a trivial thing – the outsourcing companies themselves. The building and maintaining of relationships with current and future clients is the lifeblood for service providers.

As outsourcing becomes more widespread and competition in the marketplace grows, the ability to illustrate the existence (and continued use) of powerful safeguards will increasingly become one of the significant factors for companies that are deciding which provider to link up with. Consequently, the leading outsourcing companies take security concerns extremely seriously, which may explain why many domestic studies have shown that the outsourcing process is no less secure, and may in fact be even more secure, than having the same services performed in-house.

Process fidelity is definitely necessary in the legal arena, but this needs to be placed in perspective. While legal documentation does sometimes consist of sensitive information, the sensitivity often stems from the defining characteristics of litigation and practice procedures. Law firms are no different from other companies in that they do not like to have their business practices broadcasted to the general public. However, concerning the type of damage that can be caused by leaking of information, legal data is in general substantially less sensitive than other types of data that have been outsourced for years on a massive scale. When the fact that large banks, financial institutions, and even the IRS are outsourcing on an extended basis, the entire issue of data protection insofar as LPO is concerned is put into clearer perspective. Suddenly, summons and complaints and discovery materials take on a whole new light when attorneys digest the fact that extensive credit histories, records of financial transactions and tax forms are being processed by the millions overseas.

However, this is not to say that legal information should not be afforded the highest degree of protection, especially regarding issues of conflict of interest. The legal community is one that is tightly bound together and thrives on the flow of information between affiliates and adversaries. On a regular basis, members of the defense bars network with members of the plaintiff bars. Moreover, many of the same lawyers frequent the same courtrooms in the same venues, and attend the same continued legal education courses and alumni events. Thus in order to be supremely effective, outsourcing models must place great emphasis on separation of competing interests.

The question therefore becomes: How can a law firm be assured that they are not outsourcing work to a company that is also working on the same matter for opposing counsel? While the chances of this happening may be somewhat slim, it is still a viable concern. The fact that most providers are obligated to keep the identity of their clients confidential makes it difficult for a firm to ascertain whether a current adversary is outsourcing work to the same provider.

Protections for the outsourcing firms can certainly be put into place. First and foremost, the contract between provider and client should make it absolutely clear that the provider must inform the client as soon as it learns of any possible conflict issues.

Second, the firm should make sure that the provider it chooses is able to clearly articulate – and, if possible, demonstrate – the security safeguards it has implemented to ensure the validity of the process. These safeguards should be included in the statement of work agreement, in list format, along with the additional provision that the security devices must be maintained for the breadth of the contract. Thus determination of liability of the contracting parties for any security breach that results in measurable damages will be easier to ascertain.

Third, due to the fact that technology and business procedures must often become intertwined in order for the outsourcing process to run efficiently, the security program used by the vendor should exist on both the physical and virtual levels for it to be as comprehensive as possible. It would be somewhat contradictory for an outsourcing company to rely on the fact that the production staff for two adverse law firms exists in separate offices, on separate floors or even in different cities. The very premise behind the outsourcing process is that physical separation is not a complete bar to the sharing of information – as such, a company cannot on one hand praise the concept that geographical differences are no longer barriers to the exchange of information and data, while relying strictly on geographical barriers as the only security measures put in place by the company. There is no doubt that physical separation of the production staff for adverse businesses is a good step; however, virtual separation is needed as well in order to create a robust security model.

Important questions that law firms may need answered before an outsourcing program is initiated include: How does the provider structure their production units? Are these units separated, and if they are, along what lines does the separation occur? What is the architecture of the physical premises where the work takes place? What kind of office equipment exists in that location? What types of things are prohibited from being brought to the work site? What tracking and auditing features are used in the technology that allows the process to take place? Who is responsible for the tracking and auditing? The general rule of thumb is that if the question is important enough for the attorney to ask, then it should be included in the written contract.

Once the above questions and issues are addressed to the inquiring firm’s satisfaction, the ties can be loosened and the dress shoes put on the desk, because one major aspect of the outsourcing phenomenon has been resolved. True, other issues do abound, but this one is a biggie. If the security concerns can be alleviated, then one huge step has been taken towards reaching the ultimate goal of commencing a mutually beneficial business relationship.

About the author: Stefan Belinfanti is a licensed attorney whose professional legal background includes experience in the areas of insurance litigation, labor law and civil rights law. As a legal consultant, he has developed blueprints for implementation of legal process outsourcing models for several law firms. Stefan is currently an Operations Manager for Vidhi Technological Services (Vidhi Tech), a provider of software and support services for law firms and other industry-specific businesses. More on LPO can be found at http://www.vidhitech.com/legalfirm.aspx

I've Heard About FACTA; What Does It mean

What FACTA means is that if you, as an individual, lose the information on anyone you have ever hired; or, for any business in the United States of America that collects any personal information on people, if the information should be lost due to not destroying the information properly, then two things can happen. First, there are federal fines of up to $2,500.00, and state fines up to $1,000, per employee, per incident. Second, the business is liable for any damages the individual suffers as the result of a breach of information.

Take an example that the company loses information due to negligent destruction (i.e. you don’t own a shredder and throw the information into the dumpster). Nothing in FACTA really determines what the employee has to do to prove “negligent destruction” on the part of the employer, so an employee could simply state that the employer had lost the information, and even if the employer had burned the information into ashes, it would be up to the employer to show that the information had not gotten out due to his or her company’s negligence.

Business Week says that the average damages for Identity Theft victims are $92,000.00 and up per person. Using this statistic, if you have 10 employees lose their identities, then on average, your liability is $920,000.00. Statistically, you are responsible for an average of 75 bad checks and 8 credit cards per employee. The average Identity Theft victim also spends 600 hours getting their credit restored, which means that you will have 600 hours per employee, so potentially 6,000 hours for 10 employees, which you will be responsible for paying employees who aren’t even at work, because they have taken time off to deal with the Identity Theft.

According to John Gardner, co-author of Chicken Soup for the Entrepreneurial Soul, “The damages are devastating to any business.”

There are many problems related to people’s identities that don’t deal with credit issues. Contrary to popular belief, only 26% of identity theft issues relate to credit issues. The other 74% of the issues, according to Gardner, are related to the following four areas:

Someone stealing your DMV record. Example: An identity thief wants to drive under your employee’s name instead of theirs. This will help the Identity Thief to not get caught in cases of DUI, unpaid speeding tickets, etc. Your employee is then blamed for their driving record.

Someone stealing your MIB record. This is your Medical Information Bureau Record. Example: An Identity Thief wants to have an AIDS test done in your employee’s name, rather than theirs, or have their prescriptions filled using your employee’s Medicaid or Medicare benefits

Someone stealing your character identity to commit a crime in your name. Imagine this – your future employee comes to your child care facility, and everything sounds good about this candidate. However, you run a criminal background check, and find out that they have three arrests for child pornography and one for drug trafficking to minors. You bring the record to their attention, and they insist it’s not them.

Your employment record. Example: An Identity Thief wants to earn income using your employee’s social security number, but let your employee pay taxes on the money they earn.

As a result of this, Gardner says that “Businesses need to offer 24 hour per day, 7 day per week access to attorneys….I think that the danger is so large to any business, that they may want to [pay for] some of the cost of this, to encourage the employees to get the benefit…If a business does not understand that they need the help, they are living in a dream world.”

Employers should also offer some sort of Identity Theft protection, and ongoing background monitoring. This can be offered as a voluntary benefit which has no real cost to the employer, as a fringe benefit paid by the employer, or can be a combination of both. When an identity thief uses your employee’s information, (for example an identity thief takes the employee’s current address, and uses it as their previous address when they apply for a mortgage,) ongoing background monitoring will notify your employee when the identity theft happens.

Most people don’t find out that they have become victims until that Identity Thief, who has used your employee’s credit to finance their mortgage, stops paying bills, is picked up for a crime, or doesn’t pay taxes. Ongoing monitoring provides an early warning system, so that your employee will be able to call an expert who can correct the problem when it takes place. This will save your employee’s time, and limit the losses your employee will incur as a result of the breach of their information. This will also save you the costs associated with the frustration and lack of ability to pay attention as work.

Even if your employees don’t elect to have the benefits of legal services and identity theft protection, having a mandatory meeting where employees hear that you have made this coverage available to them will provide an affirmative defense, should an employee ever accuse you, as the employer, of having lost their personal information.

Under FACTA, access to an attorney and credit restoration, are benefits that employers need to offer. Ongoing background monitoring will mitigate damages that the employee can experience because the early warning system will be in place to handle the issues. Access to an attorney and credit restoration will drastically reduce the time the employee spends away from work dealing with the issues surrounding identity theft and other personal legal problems.

Failure on the part of an employer to offer this benefit leaves a company exposed to thousands (and even millions) of dollars in potential damages, and leaves employees subject to the time, frustration, and headaches associated with being a victim of Identity Theft.

Jonathan Kraft is a benefits consultant who specializes in educating people about how they can get affordable access to the legal system. Because of his work in the field of electronic Identity Theft, he has come to be known as Colorado’s Foremost Expert on Computer Related Identity Theft. To schedule a time for Mr. Kraft's company to present Identity Theft and Legal Service protection to your employees, please contact him at (877) 825-7119. You can also find out more on the web at http://www.strive4impact.com/group

Credit Card Processing How to Legally Beat the System by Passing Processing Fees to Customers

Imposing surcharges on credit card transactions is illegal, and it will only lead to problems. The secret to beating the credit card processing system is not charging more for credit card sales, but instead is charging less for cash sales. It may sound like the same thing, but there is a big difference.

The increasing costs associated with accepting credit cards are leaving many merchants searching for ways to pass along at least a portion of processing expenses to their customers. Card originators such as VISA and MasterCard are becoming wary of this new trend and are enforcing strict regulations specifically designed to hinder any such efforts by merchants to impose surcharges on credit card purchases.

Discount fees, transaction costs, and other expenses associated with the acceptance of electronic bank cards (credit and debit cards) are putting a strangle hold on to the NET profits of businesses of all sizes. To help minimize the impact that processing costs are having on profits, many businesses are charging a surcharge to customers that choose to pay for products or services using a credit or debit card.

Card originators such as VISA, MasterCard, American Express, and Discover have a lot to lose if the practice of imposing surcharges on credit card transactions becomes popular among merchants. When merchants impose surcharges on credit transactions, they make purchasing on credit a less appealing option to consumers, and many consumers choose to avoid the additional cost by simply paying with cash or a check. A decrease in the use of credit cards by consumers translates directly into lost revenue for processing banks. Not only do banks lose out on the processing fees that they would have collected from the merchant, but they lose any finance charges that would have been incurred by the customer as well.

You may wonder why so many businesses still choose to place a surcharge on credit transactions, even though it is strictly forbidden in the processing agreement they had to sign when opening their merchant account. Quite frankly, many business people choose to ignore this clause in their processing agreement and impose a surcharge anyway. This approach is not recommended. When and if these businesses are discovered, their merchant accounts will be terminated, and they may even be placed on the Terminated Merchant File (TMF) which will make it nearly impossible for them to acquire another merchant account.

Card originators and banks have control over credit card (bankcard) transactions, and they can legally ban a merchant from imposing surcharges. However, they do not have any legal control over other forms of payment such as cash and checks. The largest card originator (VISA) has even published information stating that, "You may, however, offer a discount for cash transactions, provided that the offer is clearly disclosed to customers and the cash piece is presented as a discount from the standard price charged for all other forms of payment".1

Most merchant accounts operate on a tiered discount pricing grid and, ironically, the secret to beating credit card processing fees is to impose tiered pricing on your products and services as well. The old saying, "if you can’t beat em', join em’" applies perfectly.

While you can’t charge extra for credit card sales, you can charge less for cash as long as all prices are clearly stated to customers, and the cash price is reflected as a discount from the original purchase price. For example: if the price tag on an item states that the item costs $10, the cash price must be represented as a discount from that price. The price tag for this particular item should look something like this:

Price: $10.00

5% discount for cash payment @ $9.50

5% Discount for Check Payment @ $9.50

By utilizing a tiered pricing grid, merchants can alleviate the cost of accepting credit cards, while still providing their customers with the freedom to choose their preferred method of payment.

1. Published by VISA in the Card Acceptance and Chargeback Management Guide for VISA Merchants, ฉ2004

Copyright 2005 Jack Lang

About the Author:
Jack Lang is the senior contributor member at http://www.merchantcouncil.org. The Merchant Council is a free resource dedicated to assisting businesses obtain and manage credit card processing and merchant account services. A wealth of merchant account information can be found at MerchantCouncil.org.