Problem with car breaks

I own a 1997 Ford Taurus and all had been working well until yesterday. I press the breaks maybe half way down, and they don't do anything. I press them a bit farther then they start slowing my car down properly. I don't know why they don't start working right when I press down, like they used to.

Anyone have any idea? Thanks :)

Do you smell anything funny?  Is there any noise that goes along with braking?  Do they feel squishy?

Have the brakes checked!  It could be either the brakes are wearing out or the fluid is low (any lights on?).

Thanks guys, I've it figured out now. It was leaking break fluid making the breaks feel squishy. Eek! At least all is well now 

I was leaking fluid once into my wheel drum, and didn't know it for the longest time until the brakes just went out one day.  Yikes

What's your top speed? Mine's a slow 90mph