What Is a Zombie Second Mortgage? A zombie second mortgage is a home loan that resurfaces years after a homeowner believed it was resolved. These mortgages frequently originated during the U.S. housing boom leading up to 2008, when buyers used “piggyback” or “80/20” loan structures — an 80% first mortgage combined with a 20% second mortgage — to finance a home purchase without a traditional down payment or private Read More
Have You Been Scammed Through Your Bank Account, Zelle, or Your Debit Card? The EFTA May Protect You — But the Clock Is Ticking
Every week, more Arizonans—and consumers nationwide—lose their hard-earned money to increasingly sophisticated financial scams. These losses often happen through: • Zelle, Venmo, Cash App, or PayPal transfers • Unauthorized debit-card purchases • Mysterious ACH withdrawals • Fraudulent online banking transfers • Account takeovers caused by phone or SIM-swap scams • Remote-access scams where a “tech Read More
2025–2026 Medicare Advantage Plans: Updated Rules, Costs, and Benefits
As Medicare’s Annual Enrollment Period runs from October 15 through December 7, many people are weighing whether to stay with Original Medicare or switch to a Medicare Advantage (Part C) plan. Understanding how these plans work — and how they may affect your healthcare choices — can help you make a more informed decision this November. What Is Medicare Advantage (Part C)? Medicare Advantage plans are offered Read More
Fake Reviews & Online Deception: Can You Sue for False Advertising?
In the digital age, reviews and testimonials often shape consumer decisions. But what happens when those reviews are false, misleading, or manipulated? This month at A. Ferraris Law, we're diving into fake reviews & online deception—exploring whether consumers or businesses can take legal action, and how they may proceed. Why False Reviews Matter Fake reviews distort consumer trust. They Read More
Medical Billing Errors: How to Fight Back Against Overcharges
Medical billing errors are more common than many people realize, and they might lead to costly overcharges if not carefully reviewed. Mistakes, overcharges, miscodings, or even improper balance bills might land on your doorstep long after you sought care. If you live in Arizona, you do have legal tools and protections at your disposal to fight back. Below is a guide to what you might do if your medical bill seems Read More
Tenant Rights: What is “Normal Wear and Tear”?
When a lease ends, many renters are shocked to receive unexpected bills for “damage” or unexpected add-on charges. These charges—disguised as move-out fees —can be confusing, overwhelming, and in some cases, unlawful. At our firm, we have heard about tenants who are billed for issues that are nothing more than normal wear and tear. Knowing your rights can help you fight back and avoid paying for expenses that Read More
What the One Big Beautiful Bill Act (OBBBA) Could Mean for Your Business
Staying up to date with tax reforms and employment legislation is part of running a smart and compliant business. With the recent signing of the One Big Beautiful Bill Act (OBBBA) into law, there are several important updates that business owners should be aware of. While most changes are expected to take effect in the 2025 tax year (for taxes filed in 2026), it’s a good idea to prepare now for what may lie Read More
Understanding the Fair Housing Act and Your Tenant Rights
Housing discrimination isn't always obvious, but it happens far too often—especially to individuals with disabilities or mental health conditions. That’s why the Fair Housing Act exists. It offers protections to help ensure equal access to housing without fear of prejudice or unfair treatment. If you or someone you know is facing housing discrimination, understanding your legal rights is the first step toward Read More
Forced Arbitration, Consumer Rights, and the Role of Class Actions: Key Points to Understand
In today's marketplace, consumers often encounter contracts—be it for credit cards, cell phones, auto financing, warranty documents, or online services—that include forced arbitration clauses. These clauses require disputes to be resolved through private arbitration rather than in court. While arbitration can be efficient, forced arbitration may limit consumers' rights, particularly when it comes to participating in Read More
Home Equity Stripping: How to Spot and Avoid Scams
Your home is likely one of your most valuable assets. Unfortunately, you may be a target for unscrupulous. Homeowners—especially those facing financial difficulties—can be presented with deceptive schemes designed to steal the equity built up in their home. One such scheme is known as home equity stripping. What Is Home Equity Stripping? Home equity stripping involves fraudulent practices where individuals Read More
