Month: February 2012

Google’s New Privacy Policies

Has anybody reviewed Google`s new privacy policy? It’s available on-line and in plain sight on the Google homepage.

The Sacramento Bee recently reported: Consumer Watchdog Praises State Attorneys General Action Against Google

The National Association of Attorneys General sent a letter on February 22, 2012 to the CEO of Google outlining their concerns. The letter is signed on behalf of 36 different US Attorney Generals. That`s nothing to sneeze at.

Click here for the letter.

The primary concern seems to be that Google has now bundled all services into one largely for the purposes of tracking user habits to ultimately provide targeted ads.

Ever do a search on a specific vehicle or designer shoes? Don`t be surprised when you`re on Youtube later watching that favorite video only to find an ad in the right hand column for that exact product.

If you use Gmail, Google`s computer code will automatically search your messages to pick up keywords and then provide advertisements based on the subject, messages and email addresses you correspond with. I seem to get more ads for legal services than anything else.

Google`s new privacy policies can be found here: http://www.google.ca/intl/en/policies/privacy/

Stay tuned for more on this topic.

Should I loan money to a friend?

I want to borrow money - I want to loan money. What should I do?

A common transaction is where people will borrow money from a friend or family member. Often people will call and ask whether they need something in writing. If so, how formal should the document be?

First, an oral agreement or contract is binding on parties. If there is a breach of the oral agreement parties can sue. However, suing pursuant to an oral agreement always presents many challenges. Parties will dispute the terms of the arrangement such as, how soon the loan should have been paid back or the term of interest.

Second, this is why we always recommend that any type of loan agreement be in writing. It protects the parties and provides clarification.

Depending on the amount being loaned you might consider a very formal agreement or informal. If you are thinking of loaning or borrowing a substantial sum of money it`s a good idea to speak with a lawyer. A lawyer can guide you through the process and protect your rights. The absence of an agreement can cause tremendous uncertainty and confusion that will complicate the litigation process.

There are many circumstances where people will opt not to have a written agreement. Typically, if it involves a close family member.

If you are thinking of borrowing money from a friend or loaning ensure you speak with an experienced contract lawyer.

Call me today 416-505-4901

Address: 901 Guelph Line, Burlington, OntarioÂ