Twelve years old and going strong—that's the Santa Clara County Bad Check Restitution Program.

The program has recovered more than $3.5 million for victims of bad checks in the county since it was implemented by District Attorney George Kennedy in 1992. The program's objective is to provide full restitution for merchants without adding to the financial burden of the criminal justice system. The assistance provided is free and at no cost to taxpayers.

Through the program, Santa Clara County merchants recoup their losses without paying any collection fees. And first-time bad check writers are given the opportunity to avoid criminal prosecution by attending a mandatory eight-hour intervention class in addition to paying restitution.

Complaints should be filed as soon as possible from the date of the transaction. For more information, call victim services at 877.520.6137 or contact Melissa Sifuentes at 877.208.8491.

New financial business relocates to downtown

JMG Financial Network is one of downtown Willow Glen's newest businesses. The company, which relocated its offices to 1213 Lincoln Ave., Suite 201, is an independent financial consultant firm affiliated with Linsco/Private Ledger, a national leading independent brokerage company.

JMG Financial Network offers a wide range of financial services that are goal-oriented and focused on customized investment solutions. The company's financial consultants, Joe Guttadauro and John Callan, are Certified Senior Advisors, giving them a comprehensive understanding of the financial issues that affect seniors in today's world.

For more information call 408.271.8800 or email joe.guttadauro@lpl.com or john.callan@lpl.com or visit the website at www.lpl.com/jmg.