News and Events

May 8, 2012
Please note that Plan Attorney Firm Atkins & Churchill have a new phone number. They can now be reached at (804) 695-2787. Their address remains the same. Atkins & Churchill are a full-service law firm who offer their services with the goal of providing whatever is necessary to best serve the client.

May 4, 2012
FFF: The 138th Kentucky Derby will be held tomorrow at the historic Churchill Downs in Louisville, Kentucky. It has been described as being “The Greatest Two Minutes in Sports.” Fun facts include the tradition of drinking mint juleps, wearing hats, and being called the “Run for the Roses” due to the 554 roses awarded to the winner. The horse that holds the record for the fastest time is the beloved Secretariat who ran it in 1973 with an amazing time of 1 minute and 59 2/5 seconds. http://www.kentuckyderby.com/experience/traditions

May 2, 2012
As children get older many times they want to feel more grown up and sit in the front seat. Certain states have laws in place restricting children from sitting in the front until they are a certain age/height/weight. If you are taking a trip by car it is important to know each state’s requirements. To find your current child restraint law simply click on your state. http://www.iihs.org/laws/mapchildrestraintagerequirements.aspx

April 27, 2012
FFF: As we approach the end of April many of us have thoughts of blooming flowers and planting gardens. Not so fast for folks in Central NY who woke up to snowfall earlier this week. Fun Facts Friday explores the question: If water is clear how come snow is white? http://nsidc.org/snow/faq.html

April 25, 2012
What is the difference between a Petit Jury and a Grand Jury? A petit jury hears civil and criminal cases with the goal of reaching a verdict of guilt or innocence. A grand jury consists of jurors whose function is to determine whether or not to indict or charge someone with a crime. http://www.uscourts.gov/FederalCourts/JuryService.aspx

April 20, 2012
Fun Fact Friday: Baseball fans, do you know that new baseballs are too slick to give pitchers a good grip? For over 75 years umpires have “rubbed” the new baseballs with mud from NJ to dull the shine. Although many attempts were made to recreate the special “magic mud”, experts were never able to duplicate the perfect muck from the secret location in NJ. http://www.baseballrubbingmud.com/index.html

April 18, 2012
Did you know the siren makes a different sound for a tornado watch and a tornado warning? The CDC offers education for how to prepare for a possible tornado. The informative information includes practicing your emergency plan and how to make sure important documents stay secure. http://emergency.cdc.gov/disasters/tornadoes/prepared.asp

April 13, 2012
FFF: Friday the 13 will occur three times this year in January, April and July. This phenomenon won’t occur again until 2040. For those who are superstitious, having a dinner party for 14 could be tricky if one person canceled at the last minute. In 19th Century Paris it was common to hire a professional quatorzieme who would come in on short notice to fill the unlucky spot. http://bit.ly/HFTyX0

April 11, 2012
An important and sometimes forgotten part of tax preparation is understanding the rules for giving gifts to family members and friends. The federal gift tax laws encompass many kids of gifts including money, personal property, jewelry and stocks. About.com helps by giving clear information about the federal gift tax and who is responsible for paying. http://wills.about.com/od/understandingestatetaxes/qt/whatisgifttax.htm

April 6, 2012
FFF: Most people know the Secret Service safeguard the president. History reveals that they were originally created to help suppress counterfeit money. Since their creation in 1865, they have discovered and thwarted a remarkable amount of financial crimes. As for protecting the president, their full time responsibility started in 1902 after the assassination of President William McKinley. http://www.secretservice.gov/history.shtml

March 28, 2012
The term “no-fault” divorce was first adopted by the state of California in 1970. Previously, the only way for a couple to achieve a divorce was for one or both spouses to prove that the other had done something wrong. All states now allow for a “no-fault” divorce but many states require that couples live apart for a certain amount of time before filing. The last state to allow it was New York in 2010. http://people.howstuffworks.com/question740.htm

March 23, 2012
FFF: What is the Charlie Brown effect? Research shows that when astronauts are exposed to zero gravity, their faces tend to get bigger and rounder making them resemble the shape of the cartoon character Charlie Brown. The reason is explained by the fact that body fluids are normally pulled downward by gravity and in space the fluids gather in the head causing the face to expand. One more interesting aspect, since this also causes congestion, the astronauts are also said to crave spicy foods. http://bit.ly/GHn00y

March 21, 2012
Juvenile courts differ from adult courts in many ways. One distinguishing aspect is that the court procedure is usually much less formal. The juveniles are usually called minors or a respondent as opposed to adult defendants. The outcome is not a verdict, they are adjudicated. There are no jury trials, no bail, and the court hearings are almost always closed to the general public. http://criminal.findlaw.com/juvenile-justice/juvenile-court-procedure.html

March 14, 2012
Plan Attorney Firm Axelson, Williamowsky, Bender and Fischman have a new address at their Washington, DC location. The new address is: 700 12th Street, NW, Suite 700 ,Washington, DC 20005. Please note that you will need to bring ID with you to enter the building. http://www.awbflaw.com/location/

March 9, 2012
FFF: Have you ever unwrapped a stick of gum and chewed some of the aluminum foil wrapper by accident? If you have metal fillings in your mouth you may notice it is painful! How Stuff Works.com explains, “Basically, when you bite on foil, you set up a battery in your mouth and the electrical current stimulates nerve endings in your tooth.” http://bit.ly/zcFpvq

March 7, 2012
The next time they take your picture at the DMV you may not be allowed to smile. Maybe a little curl of the mouth, but absolutely no teeth. More states now require a neutral facial expression in order to help prevent fraud and identity theft. The intricate facial recognition technology works best when your mouth is closed and your eyes are wide open. One might say that it’s hard to muster up a smile anyway after the long wait in line at the DMV. http://bit.ly/we2pK5

March 2, 2012
FFF: “It was one of those March days when the sun shines hot and the wind blows cold: when it is summer in the light, and winter in the shade.” – Charles Dickens

February 28, 2012
One of the many benefits of the Legal Resources’ Plan is providing coverage for domestic adoptions. Under the Master Plan Contract an uncontested domestic adoption is a fully covered service. Your Plan Attorney can be a powerful resource to help guide you through the many complicated steps, including change of name for the adopted child. See master plan contract for full terms of service. http://www.childwelfare.gov/pubs/f_start.cfm

February 24, 2012
FFF: The Gregorian calendar was introduced in 1582 to include an extra day every 4 years due to the timing of the earth’s rotation around the sun. However 1900 was not a leap year and 2000 was. Do you know why? The answer lies in the fact that adding an extra day every 4 years is a fraction too much. So, if a year is divisible by 100 it will have not have a leap year, but if it is divisible by 400 it will. Get out those calculators! http://bit.ly/zuL0oy

February 22, 2012
While some may think that a slip law has to do with falling down, it actually refers to the first official printing of a new law. Once a new law is passed, its first official publication is distributed as a slip law, unbound with notes written in the margins. It originally got its name from the fact that these laws were generally printed on a “slip” of paper.

February 14, 2012
Statistics show that approximately 10% of all Americans get engaged on Valentine's Day. In order to comply with government laws, at some point you must apply for a marriage license. Although each state has different requirements, most states require that you bring proof of residence, the application fee, and most importantly you will need your fiancé. http://usmarriagelaws.com/

February 10, 2012
FFF: On February 10, 1967, the 25th Amendment was ratified helping to clarify the vice president’s role regarding presidential succession. History reveals that the position of vice president has been occupied by a diverse and colorful body of individuals including a composer, fugitive and 3 Nobel Peace Prize winners. http://1.usa.gov/yP1fmC

February 7, 2012
Getting served with a subpoena can be a dramatic heart stopping event. In reality, it simply means that the court requires you to do something. A subpoena ad testificandum requires you to testify in court and a subpoena duces tecum asks you to provide some tangible evidence such as a document. Remember, if you find yourself in need of assistance, your Legal Resources’ Plan Attorney can help. http://public.findlaw.com/litigation_appeals/subpoena.html

February 3, 2012
FFF: Punxsutawney Phil was very busy yesterday at about 7:25 am. When he came out from his fully heated simulated tree trunk, (did they have those in 1887?) he saw his shadow. According to the traditions of Groundhog Day, this means 6 more weeks of winter still remain. Some fun facts include that if you speak English during the celebration you have to pay a penalty of one coin per word spoken.

January 24, 2012
Five ways you can use your Legal Resources Plan to achieve a feeling of security:
1. Prepare a Will
2. Draw up an Advanced Medical Directive
3. Create a Power of Attorney
4. Choose a legal guardian for your children
5. Name an executor for your estate

January 20, 2012
FFF : On January 20, 1945, Franklin D. Roosevelt was sworn-in for an unprecedented 4th term as president. Did you know that he was the first president whose mother was able to vote for him? He was also the first to speak on television and fly in an airplane. http://www.history.com/this-day-in-history/fdr-inaugurated-to-fourth-term

January 17, 2012
An escalator clause is a legal term used in conjunction with a contract. It addresses the need to raise monetary compensation due to cost-of-living increases in the future. For example, when negotiating the terms of a divorce, an escalator clause would raise the alimony as time passes in order to adjust for inflation. These clauses are also very common in construction contracts and rental agreements. http://definitions.uslegal.com/e/escalator-clause/

January 6, 2012
FFF: As the winter months swirl around us, much time and energy is spent on preventing and treating the common (but nasty) cold. Many people believe that going outside with a wet head makes you sick, yet medical research shows that being exposed to a virus is the culprit. As kids we were also told that most body heat is lost through your head. To find out if mom was right about this, click on link to see what the Yale Medical group has discovered. http://www.yalemedicalgroup.org/stw/Page.asp?PageID=STW001875

January 5, 2012
Plan Attorney firm Axelson, Williamowsky, Bender & Fishman made a difference over the holiday season by helping to provide much needed support at the Stepping Stone Shelter in Rockville, MD. They have been actively involved with this organization for over 3 years proving that they are a full service law firm dedicated to serving both clients and the community. http://www.awbflaw.com/

January 4, 2012
When dressing for a court appearance it is important to consider what kind of impression you want to make. Looking neat and respectful is a must, and studies show that subtle nuances can also make a difference. The Wall Street Journal confirms how you dress may make a difference in the outcome of your case. http://on.wsj.com/yU3hYG

December 30, 2011
As of January 1st 2012 the Legal Resources attorney network will have a new addition. Plan Attorney firm Waldman and Associates is merging with Jarrell & Hicks to form the new law firm Jarrell, Hicks & Waldman. The new offices are conveniently located at 9064 Courthouse Road, Spotsylvania, Virginia 22553 and their phone number is 540-582-5300. http://www.waldman-law.com/

December 28, 2011
Visiting family during the holiday season can lead to the discovery of an elder who may be in need of extra care. Fortunately there is help available for those in need of information. The Administration on Aging offers this worksheet to help recognize the signs and help determine if extra care is needed for an older relative. http://www.eldercare.gov/ELDERCARE.NET/Public/Resources/Factsheets/Ten_Warning_Signs.aspx

December 25, 2011
Season's Greetings from all of us at Legal Resources. Wishing you and your loved ones a wonderful holiday season.

December 23, 2011
When getting ready for the holiday season remember to pay attention to your vehicle in order to ensure a safe arrival to your destination. The Better Business Bureau suggests taking your car in for a checkup and creating a car safety kit. It is also a good idea to start early, and make sure you are not distracted while driving. Simple preventative maintenance can make a big difference during this very hectic time of year. http://wynco.bbb.org/article/BBB-Tips-for-Avoiding-the-Holiday-Travel-Headache-31457

December 22, 2011
As technology advances, we find ourselves making more purchases online. Sometimes when an item arrives, it is different from what we expected, damaged, or maybe the merchant charged the wrong amount. A chargeback is a procedure designed to protect consumers by allowing them to dispute a charge. The following article from The Consumer Credit Card Guide gives information on your rights as a consumer and what you can do if you need to initiate a chargeback. http://www.consumercreditcardguide.com/credit-card-help/how-chargebacks-work-2

December 16, 2011
Fun Fact Friday: Can you tell the temperature by listening to the chirping of a cricket?

Library of Congress Everyday Mysteries gives this answer:
Yes!

The frequency of chirping varies according to temperature. To get a rough estimate of the temperature in degrees Fahrenheit, count the number of chirps in 15 seconds and then add 37. The number you get will be an approximation of the outside temperature. http://www.loc.gov/rr/scitech/mysteries/cricket.html

December 15, 2011
Congratulations to the College of William & Mary for achieving top honors. Bloomberg Businessweek ranked The Mason School’s Executive MBA Program 36th in the world and The Flex MBA program 48th in the nation. http://mason.wm.edu/news/2011/bloomberg_rankings_2011.php

December 13, 2011
Going to court for the first time can be an intimidating experience. How you present yourself can really make a difference in how the judge views your case. It is important to dress professionally and behave respectfully. Also, speak clearly and always call the judge “your honor”. Plan Attorney Wilson and Wilson offer more tips on how to help make a good impression. http://www.wilsonlawva.com/newport-news-court-info.php

December 9, 2011
FFF: Guess what I am? Over 60 million of these are sold at holiday time each year. There are unusual speckled varieties called “Jingle Bells” and “Candy Cane”. California is the top producer and they can reach heights of 12 feet. Aztecs used it for medicinal purposes. Get ready, because in three days, on December 12th there is even a national day for it. http://bit.ly/uyYBxi

December 8, 2011
Plan Attorney John Kent Kidwell, Managing Partner at the Law Offices of Kidwell Kent & Curran recently raised an amazing $14,000 for the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society. The money helps fund research and treatment for those suffering from blood cancers. http://kidwellkentandcurran.com/

December 7, 2011
December 7, 1941 will be forever remembered in the hearts and minds of Americans. The Franklin D. Roosevelt library provides a rare opportunity to view a rough draft of the typed speech which went on to become one of the most important messages of the century. A close look at the document reveals the important handwritten additions to the original text. http://www.fdrlibrary.marist.edu/education/resources/pdfs/Infamy.pdf

December 5, 2011
Have you double checked that parking ticket? Find Law advises to not only double check your ticket, but also take the time to look up the law. If you feel you have received a parking ticket unjustly, following these 5 practical tips may give you a fighting chance. http://bit.ly/uxTrf9

December 2, 2011
Fun Fact Friday: What is the world’s second most popular drink after water? Hint: It is consumed at the rate of 1400 million cups per day and it is the second most widely used product in the world after oil. Click on link for answer and more fun facts about this beverage some people can’t live without. http://bit.ly/twp24F

November 30, 2011
Many thanks to Plan Attorneys Nikeva Bailey and Joyvan Malbon from Bullock and Cooper for taking time out of their busy schedules to offer expert legal information to employees at Canon Virginia, Inc. The Plan Attorneys spoke and answered questions during a valuable and informative presentation. To learn more about them visit their website at: http://bullockcooper.com/

November 28, 2011
What is a replevin action more commonly called? A replevin action is a legal term used when someone is trying to recover personal property. The term dates back to the middle ages when it was used primarily by a feudal tenant trying to get back items wrongfully taken by a lord. Today it is more commonly called “claim and delivery” and is used when someone files a suit to reclaim goods and property being wrongfully held.

November 23, 2011
Legal Resources® will be closed on Friday, November 25th for the Thanksgiving holiday. Wishing you a warm and happy Thanksgiving.

November 23, 2011
Thanksgiving usually includes a lot of cooking. As children we were reminded that safe kitchen habits were important. It is good to review basics every so often to avoid danger. The CDC offers this interactive safety review. http://www.cdc.gov/healthyhomes/byroom/kitchen.html

November 11, 2011
If you are looking to rent an apartment, choosing a good landlord is vital. Repairs are inevitable and an attentive landlord can make a big difference. The American Bar Association suggests using a mailbox test to help make your decision. If the names on mailboxes are neat, this could indicate that the landlord takes pride in the property, where as if the mailboxes are in disrepair and the names are handwritten this could indicate both the landlord and tenants don’t care about the appearance of the building.

November 18, 2011
Fun Fact Friday: Did you know that Benjamin Franklin thought the national bird of the United States of America should be the turkey? It seems that John Adams and Thomas Jefferson didn’t gobble up that idea.

November 15, 2011
VeteranAid.org, is a non-profit organization created to provide information regarding benefits available to veterans, their spouses and families. http://www.veteranaid.org/program.php

November 15, 2011
Plan Attorneys Beth Ann R. Lawson and David C. Johnson of Virginia Beach Law Group were recently highlighted by VeteranAid.org for their assistance helping Veterans. Both Attorneys are certified to work with Veterans and are being recognized along with colleagues Anna Clarke Sas and Otis K. Forbes for their efforts to help military families receive their well deserved benefits and services. http://www.veteranaid.org/details.php?id=165536

November 7, 2011
When you move, you must send notification that you have changed your address. Most people know to contact their post office, credit card company and bank. Did you also know the IRS needs to know your new address? There are three ways to let the IRS know your updated address so you can ensure you receive your refund and important correspondence. Click on link to find out how. http://www.irs.gov/newsroom/article/0,,id=107477,00.html

October 25, 2011
Make A Difference Day is celebrated each year on the 4th Saturday in October when millions of Americans join together to help make the world a better place. Legal Resources® was a proud sponsor of the event which was held in Richmond and helped raise money for the needs of children.

October 25, 2011
Legal Resources® acknowledges employee Tracey Testa for reaching out to the community this past weekend. Her participation in the Make A Difference 5k run benefited ChildSavers, a community-supported non-profit agency dedicated to helping the health and well being of children in need. http://www.childsavers.org/

October 24, 2011
Having children go off to college for the first time can be scary for a parent. Legal Resources® offers security in knowing that your dependents are still covered by your Master Plan Contract. As long as they are enrolled in college, unmarried, and under 23, they still enjoy the benefits of your coverage. It is nice to have this peace of mind as they start their journey on their own.

October 21, 2011
Fun Fact Friday. Only female mosquitoes bite. The males feed on flower nectar. Have you ever wondered why some people are prone to getting more mosquito bites than others? Everyday Mysteries from the Library of Congress answers this piercing question. http://www.loc.gov/rr/scitech/mysteries/mosquitoes.html

October 18, 2011
Animal Aid Society is a shelter with the mission of finding homes for stray, abandoned, and abused dogs. The organization is fully funded from donations and is completely staffed by volunteers. www.animalaid-va.org

October 18, 2011
Regional Manager, JJ Garofalo represented Legal Resources® as a proud sponsor at the 2011 Virginia Statewide Payroll Conference. The conference raised money for the Animal Aid Society of Hampton, Virginia.

October 11, 2011
If you are thinking about putting up a fence or adding on to your house it is imperative that you know exactly where your property ends. Many people believe they know where their property lines are only to find out later that they have used incorrect information and wind up in court with a boundary dispute as a result. Click link for help on how to locate your property line. http://www.houselogic.com/home-advice/home-thoughts/property-line-disputes/

September 16, 2011
What is the difference between an affidavit and a declaration? An affidavit is a written statement that is sworn before a notary public. It carries the equivalence of giving a statement under oath. A declaration is similar but the author does not need to be sworn in by a court officer. Although both are legal, courts usually prefer an affidavit over a declaration. http://bit.ly/ajlbSj

September 16, 2011
How concerned should you be about your credit scores? Is it smart to pay for a monthly tracking service? Is the score you get for free your real score? The Wall Street Journal sheds insight on these and other questions concerning credit. http://on.wsj.com/YJ85k

September 16, 2011
Virginia Beach Law Group has a new address! 780 Lynnhaven Parkway Suite 220, Virginia Beach, VA 23452 www.vabeachlawgroup.com

August 31, 2011
What can you do to avoid an accident if your car looses contact with the wet road and starts to hydroplane?Weather.com offers tips on how to avoid skidding by driving slowly on curves and keeping tires inflated properly.If your car begins to hydroplane, easing your foot off the accelerator will increase your chances of safely recovering from this dangerous situation. http://bit.ly/bV9Aq9

August 31, 2011
Did you know that August has 31 days because it “borrowed” a day from February?The month was named after Roman Emperor Augustus Caesar.It was decided by the Roman Senate to name the sixth month after him,but at the time the month had only 30 days allotted to it.His Uncle Julius Caesar’s month (July) had 31 days, so they borrowed a day from February to ensure that he did not get an inferior month. http://bit.ly/dAClQ0

August 22, 2011
Spotlight on Plan Attorney Law Firm Ferrell Sayer & Nicolo. Located in the heart of Olde Towne Portsmouth, VA, this well known law firm has been giving expert service to clients since it was founded in 1984. The full service law firm houses outstanding lawyers who have achieved a solid place in the community. An interesting fact about Plan Attorney Anthony J. Nicolo is that he has visited every major league ball park in the USA.

August 4, 2011
Plan Attorney Spotlight on The Law Offices of Kozak & Associates. This high profile law firm has been serving the Portsmouth and Suffolk areas for over 25 years. They have the experience of handling news worthy cases while maintaining the intimacy and service of a hometown law firm.
www.kozakfirm.com/Firm-Overview.shtml

August 3, 2011
Try our FAQs for a fast answer to the most commonly asked questions: Legal Resources® FAQs

August 2, 2011
Legal Resources® congratulates Regional Manager JJ Garofalo and his team for two impressive first place trophies awarded at the 2nd annual Richmond International Dragon Boat Festival.

Dragon Boat Racing is a team sport where twenty paddlers, one drummer, and one steerperson move in unison as they sit in an ornate 40 foot canoe modeled after ancient Chinese designs. The key factor to winning this fast growing water sport is synchronicity. A team which paddles in unison will emerge victorious over a stronger team with less coordination.

The charity event raised money for the Virginia Breast Cancer Foundation. Legal Resources® is proud to have contributed to this worthy cause.



August 1, 2011
Legal Resources® is pleased to announce the addition of The Law Offices of Camille R. McBride to its Plan Attorney Network.It is a full service law firm offering a wealth of experience as skilled legal advocates with locations in Bowie, Maryland and The District of Columbia. http://www.crmcbridelaw.com/

JULY 2011

July 29, 2011
Fun Fact Friday: A quarter has 119 grooves on its edge, only one more than a dime. Originally, when coins were made of precious metals, people would shave the edges of the coins. The mint started using ridges in order to prevent counterfeiting and devaluing of the coin. Coins are no longer made from precious metals but the mint still keeps the grooves so the seeing impaired can distinguish the differences between coins.

July 29, 2011
The executor of an estate takes on the responsibility of protecting the deceased person’s property and making sure it is distributed properly. Legal and emotional issues can often present unforeseen challenges. The following article gives a list of some of the typical duties required of an executor such as paying outstanding bills, finding heirs, and filing the deceased person’s last tax return. http://bit.ly/hzzHxS

July 29, 2011
A new traffic law in Virginia has recently taken effect. If you are a motorist and see a stopped school bus you must not pass the school bus until all persons are fully clear of the road and the bus has started moving again. Failure to do so will now be classified as a reckless driving offense.

July 26, 2011
Spotlight on Plan Attorney law firm Blackburn, Conte, Schilling & Click. Located in the heart of Richmond, this dynamic law firm has been in practice since 1974. They have achieved Super Lawyers status (Super Lawyer Magazine) and their roster includes lawyers with the distinguished honor of holding Martindale Hubbell's highest AV rating. http://www.bcscpc.com/

July 26, 2011
Many people are finding that it makes financial sense to rent their homes instead of selling them at a loss. The American Rental Association has compiled some useful tips designed to educate new landlords and help protect the rental property. Screening tenants and visiting property regularly are two important elements needed to achieve a successful rental situation. http://bit.ly/nxQNwd

July 19, 2011
Spotlight on Plan Attorneys Myers & Myers. This full service law firm has cultivated a reputation for being powerful legal advocates through their commitment to maintaining an atmosphere of personal attention. The experienced attorneys at the Norfolk law firm have been serving clients since 1967. http://www.myerslawfirm.com/

July 18, 2011
If you are considering adoption, taking the first step may seem confusing. Understanding that there are different types of adoption is an important start. This informative article from Find Law addresses adoption basics by explaining the seven most common types which include going through an agency and adopting independently. http://bit.ly/olDiaV

July 6, 2011
The summer heat has arrived. Running your air conditioning unit can be costly but there are ways to help reduce a hefty electric bill. It is important to keep filters clean, properly insulate your attic, and check air ducts for leaks. Click link form more energy saving tips. http://bit.ly/n8ViKA

JUNE 2011

June 30, 2011
The Federal Trade Commission offers step by step instructions on how to protect yourself if you are ever find a charge on your credit card that you didn’t purchase. There are laws in place to protect you, but you must follow the proper procedures to get the matter corrected. http://1.usa.gov/39o1kq

June 30, 2011
An officer asks if you know why you were pulled over. Do you know what to answer? This week’s spotlight is on Plan Attorney Dave Johnson from Virginia Beach Law Group. Click link to view his must-see video on how to respond if approached by a police officer. http://bit.ly/mfoaKi


June 14, 2011
Fun facts and information about Flag Day. Do you know why it’s red white and blue? http://bit.ly/hHNM2

June 13, 2011
Legal Resources® acknowledges its own Terri Bodnar, for her participation in a 5k race to benefit a non-profit organization called Jeremy’s Run. The event is in memory of Jeremy Daniel Glass who died from complications of drug addiction at age 20. Jeremy's Run, now in its third year, is a race to benefit the Partnership at Drugfree.org and the Kolmac Foundation. http://bit.ly/kfcwER



June 13, 2011
There are many legal issues that can seem overwhelming and stressful. Have you made your will? Do you have insurance? The following article gives five legal tips to help you achieve peace of mind. http://bit.ly/brSsSE

June 9, 2011
It is important to have a smart plan in place in case of an emergency situation. Having a family plan, a well stocked emergency kit and knowledge of your home’s shut off valves can make a stressful situation easier to endure. The following article gives practical tips to help you prepare and keep your family safe. http://bit.ly/eWh0Fu

June 6, 2011
House purchase alert. Even though it might appear to be a dream house, it could actually be a lemon. Did you remember to check the home’s foundation and electrical system? The following article from MSN Real Estate provides 7 useful tips to help you feel secure that you are getting what you pay for. MSN Link

June 2, 2011
Spotlight on Plan Attorney Miller, Walsh & Kutz. This prestigious full service law firm provides its clients with high quality legal support. Located in Newport News, they have been one of the leading law firms serving the Virginia Peninsula for over 30 years. http://www.mwklawva.com/

June 1, 2011
Many people are being faced with the tough choice of declaring personal bankruptcy. In 2005 the bankruptcy laws changed, which means that many people would need to file for Chapter 13 instead of Chapter 7. Click on the link for a comprehensive explanation of Chapter 13 from The American Bar Association. http://bit.ly/lc3gZQ

MAY 2011

May 23, 2011
ARM, Hybrid ARM, or Fixed Rate Mortgage. Do you know what kind of mortgage you have? Knowing how each works is important especially if you are having difficulty keeping up with payments. The Federal Trade Commission provides the following information:
Know Your Mortgage
Here are some examples of types of mortgages:
Hybrid Adjustable Rate Mortgages (ARMs): Mortgages that have fixed payments for a few years, and then turn into adjustable loans. Some are called 2/28 or 3/27 hybrid ARMs: the first number refers to the years the loan has a fixed rate and the second number refers to the years the loan has an adjustable rate. Others are 5/1 or 3/1 hybrid ARMs: the first number refers to the years the loan has a fixed rate, and the second number refers to how often the rate changes. In a 3/1 hybrid ARM, for example, the interest rate is fixed for three years, then adjusts every year thereafter.
ARMs: Mortgages that have adjustable rates from the start, which means your payments change over time.
Fixed Rate Mortgages: Mortgages where the rate is fixed for the life of the loan; the only change in your payment would result from changes in your taxes and insurance if you have an escrow account with your loan servicer.
If you have a hybrid ARM or an ARM and the payments will increase – and you have trouble making the increased payments – find out if you can refinance to a fixed-rate loan. Review your contract first, checking for prepayment penalties. Many ARMs carry prepayment penalties that force borrowers to come up with thousands of dollars if they decide to refinance within the first few years of the loan. If you’re planning to sell soon after your adjustment, refinancing may not be worth the cost. But if you’re planning to stay in your home for a while, a fixed-rate mortgage might be the way to go. Online calculators can help you determine your costs and payments.

May 21, 2011
Today is Armed Forces Day. We offer our appreciation to all who serve. From the May 17, 1952, New York Times article: "It is our most earnest hope that those who are in positions of peril, that those who have made exceptional sacrifices, yes, and those who are afflicted with plain drudgery and boredom, may somehow know that we hold them in exceptional esteem. Perhaps if we are a little more conscious of our debt of honored affection they may be a little more aware of how much we think of them."

May 20, 2011
Fun Fact Friday takes an amusing look back on a man who tried to sue himself after backing a city dump truck into his own car. MSNBC Article

May 19, 2011
Spotlight on Plan Attorney firm Mudd, Mudd & Fitzgerald. Featured monthly in the Maryland Independent, they are a well established high profile law firm dedicated to providing high quality legal services. This impressive law firm has been practicing law since 1907. www.laplatamdlawfirm.com

May 18, 2011
The Identity Theft Resource Center provides comprehensive information on how to safeguard your child from identity theft. http://bit.ly/k6uWvG

May 16, 2011
Does anyone know where you keep your important documents in case there is ever an emergency? This article from Virginia Cooperative Extension gives you a checklist to help prepare. http://bit.ly/iu86Ip

May 12, 2011
Spotlight on Plan Attorney firm Westlake Legal Group. This unique law firm provides top quality legal assistance for members. Click link to find out what makes them truly special lawyers. www.westlakelegal.com

May 11, 2011
Your Plan Attorney is a good resource to use if you ever get pulled over for a traffic violation. They can help you figure out options and understand confusing administrative procedures. http://bit.ly/lB1dQo

May 9, 2011
Do you know how many credit cards you need to carry in order to raise your credit score? Informative article reveals that the ideal number of cards is somewhere between 3 and 5. Click link for more tips on how to create a healthy credit rating.
http://bit.ly/lI7VQu

May 6, 2011
Join Legal Resources® on Facebook (www.facebook.com/legalresources) and Twitter (www.twitter.com/legal_resources) for Fun Fact Friday! #FFF #funfactfriday

May 5, 2011
Spotlight on Plan Attorney firm Karp, Frosh, Lapidus, Wigodsky & Norwind. Legal Resources® is proud to collaborate with this award winning law firm which has achieved Super Lawyer status. Special kudos to Ronald Karp who was just recognized in the Washington Post magazine as one of the top 100 lawyers in the Washington Metro area! www.karpfrosh.com

May 4, 2011
Congratulations to the winners of the 2010 Richmond Employer All Star Awards. The award honors commitment to employment, education and economic development in the workplace. We look forward to continuing our strong relationship with these deserving companies. http://www.employerallstarawards.com/winners-2010.shtml

May 4, 2011
Legal Resources® fully covers all simple uncontested name changes. Here are 5 tips from the IRS if you are going to change your name due to marriage or divorce. http://www.irs.gov/newsroom/article/0,,id=105969,00.html

May 2, 2011
Legal Resources® applauds The Sentara Healthcare Foundation for implementing new and innovative ways to give. See page 6 of Annual Report. http://bit.ly/lwauuw

APRIL 2011

April 29, 2011
Legal Resources® would like to celebrate and express gratitude on this last day of Administrative Professionals Week. We hope you had a great week!

April 27, 2011
Our Maryland team will be hosting an exhibit tomorrow at the Chesapeake SHRM conference. It is being held at the Baltimore Marriott Hunt Valley Inn. For more information: http://bit.ly/fTjuVY

April 27, 2011
Legal Resources® is here for you if you are a victim of Identity Theft. Click link for informative article from Money Talks News. http://www.moneytalksnews.com/2011/03/16/top-consumer-complaints-identity-theft/

April 25, 2011
Thought provoking reasons on how your plan attorney can help you when buying or selling property. http://bit.ly/fe7MV5

April 20, 2011
Do you have a will? Click on link for important information that will explain why everyone needs a will and why it's important to have your plan attorney draft one for you. http://bit.ly/gfNgYZ

April 18, 2011
This informative article from LawInfo gives practical information on what to bring to an initial consultation with your Plan Attorney: http://resources.lawinfo.com/en/Articles/worker-compensation-lawyer/Federal/what-to-bring-to-an-initial-consultation-with.html

April 15, 2011
Join Legal Resources® on Facebook and Twitter for Fun Fact Friday!
www.facebook.com/legalresources and www.twitter.com/legal_resources

April 13, 2011
Legal Resources® is currently featured in TowneBank's newsletter. Click on the link to find out more about how Legal Resources® got started and how our relationship with TowneBank was formed. TowneBank Newsletter

April 11, 2011
Legal Resources® is announcing the launch of our Facebook and Twitter pages! Follow us for information and tips to help you and your family.
www.facebook.com/legalresources and www.twitter.com/legal_resources