Recent Blog Posts
Adverse Possession in Texas
Real estate law is about more than buying, selling, and renting. There are a number of unusual and archaic features to Texas real estate law, including little-known pathways to obtaining property rights. Under certain circumstances, parties who “squat” on unclaimed property may actually have a venue for legal ownership. Below, our seasoned real estate… Read More »
Employees vs. Independent Contractors
Business owners looking to save money and overhead costs often wish to classify as many workers as possible as independent contractors. Unlike employees, independent contractors are not protected by overtime laws, they are not guaranteed certain benefits, they require less training and supervision, etc. However, employers are not free to characterize workers as either… Read More »
Are Verbal Contracts Binding?
We’ve all heard the old adage “a handshake is as good as a contract.” From a legal perspective, is it true now, if it ever was? Can a verbal agreement, or in modern times, an informal agreement made via text message or email, qualify as a binding contract? Continue reading to learn about how… Read More »
Suit to Quiet Title
Real estate transactions are not always straightforward. Sometimes, the actual ownership of a piece of property is not entirely clear. When property is acquired via a quitclaim deed or adverse possession, other parties in interest may arise and try to claim ownership. In Texas, a putative property owner can file an action in court… Read More »
Difference Between a Deed and a Deed of Trust
Many Texans have purchased real estate with assistance through a bank loan. Most Texans may be unaware, however, that Texas is a “deed of trust” state. Deeds of trust operate similarly to mortgages in other states, but with notable differences. It is important for any purchaser of real estate, whether residential or commercial, to… Read More »
What is a Deed Without a Warranty?
When you purchase a piece of real estate, you are taking the deed to the property. The deed provided by the seller typically includes certain “warranties.” Under certain circumstances, however, a seller may offer a deed without warranty or a deed with “special” or limited warranties. Continue reading for a discussion of the legal… Read More »
Are Non-Competes Enforceable in Texas?
Non-compete agreements, also called non-competition agreements, non-competes, or covenants not to compete, restrict an employee or officer’s right to compete with their employer after leaving the company. They are often included in employment contracts or offers. Non-competes are intended to protect companies from the risk that an employee will quit and work for a… Read More »
Protecting Intellectual Property Through Copyright
Not all forms of theft are physical. For many businesses, their intellectual property is their livelihood. You rely on your original creations, your reputation, and your brand to succeed. When someone appropriates your material without license or authorization, they are not only stealing money from the coffers of your business; they are doing potential… Read More »
Partnership Dispute: What to do When a Partner Leaves
Not all business partnerships are made to last. Partners may find themselves at odds over the direction of the company or a personal matter, a partner may pass away, or a partner might simply choose to leave to explore other opportunities. When a partner leaves a small business, what happens next? Continue reading for… Read More »
Statutory Conversions: How to Change Business Entity Type
So you formed your limited partnership or close corporation and your business has flourished. You have employees, an established customer base, perhaps even room to franchise out. But your current business entity is limited and inefficient for business expansion. Perhaps you would benefit from a different tax structure or more legal protection. Or maybe… Read More »
