As we ring in the new year, many of us are dealing with the debts we rang up this holiday season. Last year 9 million turned to credit counseling services to help manage their bills. While debt consolidation has helped many, for some the dream of getting a fresh start turned into a nightmare. This story looks at one couple and how they ended up with even more debt and higher interest rates.

Now the American Bar Association is offering on-line tips for those considering debt consolidation as a way to get on top of their bills.

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• Pam and Son doing homework
• Pam's sons playing basketball
• ABA Web site

• Pam Angell, Fraud Victim
• Allen Angell, Fraud Victim
• Dennis W. Archer, President American Bar Association