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When it comes to downloading music on the web in a legal fashion, Itunes is the undisputed leader. Well, maybe not in Norway.

Norway has a unique set of laws related to technology, particularly as it applies to the web. One set of laws tries to create a consumer friendly air for particular software to product applications. In human terms, these laws state that a software system designed for a specific problem also has to be adaptable to other products not owned by the company in question. In this case, we are talking about the Itunes and Ipod relationship.

Unlike most countries, Norway has a unique way of enforcing its laws in this regard. The country appoints an Ombudsman to rule on various issues such as whether a company is or is not complying with the laws of the country. The current ombudsman has ruled that Apple violates the law because Itunes cannot be used to download to Nokia and Microsoft products to name but a few. So, is Itunes going to be blocked in Norway now? No. The company has until October 1st to make changes that allow other products to receive downloads from Itunes. How Apple goes about this, of course, is going to be the interesting development.

Obviously, the Norway ruling is not good news for Apple and its incredibly popular Itunes-Ipod product line. Then again, how big a hit could losing the Norway market be? Probably not a big one, but more bad news may be on the way. Other countries in the European Union are now reviewing the ruling and considering adopting it. If Apple faces this problem across all of Europe, you can bet it will move quickly to modify Itunes.

At the end of the day, the ruling of the ombudsman in Norway may look like the usual unwanted government intervention. In truth, it is probably a good move. As consumers, we should want as much flexibility as possible with the things we pay for. If Itunes can be accessed through more products, it can only be a good thing.

Richard A. Chapo is with SanDiegoBusinessLawFirm.com - incorporate in California.

No one really wants to think about the possibility of getting old, contracting a terminal illness, and dying. Mortality is something we all face, but of which none of us enjoy being reminded. From a practical standpoint, however, dealing and coming to terms with one's own mortality and aging process is not only realistic, but advisable.

This is where estate planning comes in; keeping a will, setting up trust funds, and arranging for the distribution of one's assets after death - all are undoubtedly very important to the future of your property and your loved ones. It is also important, though, to remember that the task of estate planning is not something which affects only the distant future; nor is it a project which shows benefits only after death. In fact, one of the most important components of any complete plan deals with what happens while you are still alive.

Imagine, for example, that in a car accident, you suffer a severe head injury and fall into a coma. The doctors tell your family that the chance of recovery is slim, and ask them to decide whether or not to continue your life support. Now your loved ones are in an incredibly difficult situation. They are confused, distraught, and unable to decide what you would have wanted. Bitter conflicts may arise and tear apart family members who were once close. The recent case of Terri Schiavo is a sobering example of what can happen without proper preparation.

Advance healthcare directives are documents and legal arrangements designed to prepare for the event of your incapacitation. If you are in an accident, contract a terminal illness, or are otherwise unable to communicate your wishes personally, they allow your loved ones to know for sure what your wishes are, saving them the agonizing task of making such a decision themselves. Two types of advance healthcare directives are:

- Living Will - a document which states your wishes in regard to certain life-prolonging treatments. If you are certified as incapacitated and terminally ill, a living will tells family members and doctors how to proceed.

- Healthcare Proxy - a type of power-of-attorney which appoints a representative, or proxy, to act on your behalf, should you become unable to do so yourself. By discussing potential situations with your proxy beforehand, you allow him or her to make decisions based on your wishes, even when you are incapacitated.

To learn more about effective estate planning strategies, visit the website of Austin probate attorneys Slater & Kennon, LLP at http://www.probatelawyeraustin.com

Joseph Devine