Knowledge library
Insights for business owners facing a dispute
The questions people ask before they hire a commercial litigator, answered plainly under Texas law, with the sources cited. Search by what happened to you, not by legal term.
274 guides, page 22 of 31Showing 190 to 198
Demand Letters & Pre-Litigation
Should I Negotiate Directly Before Hiring a Lawyer?
Often yes, for a small dispute with a counterpart you trust. But direct talks create evidence, run down the clock and can waive rights. Know the four risks first.
Business Fraud & Fiduciary Duty
Should I Report Business Fraud to the Police or Sue?
You can do both. A criminal case can bring restitution but you do not control it; a civil suit gives control, discovery and full damages at your cost. Sequence matters.
Arbitration, Mediation & Settlement
Should I Settle or Go to Trial?
Settle when the certain payment beats the probable judgment after fees, time, collection risk and appeal. Try the case when it does not, or when more than money is at stake.
Litigation Process, Fees & Risk
Should My Business File a Counterclaim?
If your claim arises from the same transaction as the plaintiff's, Texas Rule 97 requires you to bring it now or lose it. If not, filing is a choice about cost and timing.
Contracts & Breach of Contract
Someone Interfered With My Contract. Tortious Interference in Texas
You may have a tort claim against the outsider. Texas requires an existing contract, a willful act of interference, causation and damage. Unsigned deals need wrongful conduct.
Trade Secrets, Trademarks & IP
Someone Is Using a Name Like Mine. Trademark Infringement Basics
You may have a claim if you used the name first and customers are likely to confuse the two. Rights come from use, registration strengthens them, and confusion is the test.
Demand Letters & Pre-Litigation
Someone Sent My Business a Demand Letter. Should I Respond?
In most cases, yes: a measured, deliberate response protects you better than silence. The real decision is who responds, when, and what the letter should and should not say.
Securities & Investment Disputes
Startup Investors vs. Founders: Common Disputes and Remedies
Startup fights fall into five groups: misrepresentation in the raise, misuse of funds, information blackouts, dilution and control, and founder self-dealing.
Construction & Payment Disputes
Statute of Repose and Limitations for Construction Claims in Texas
Texas cuts off most construction claims 10 years after substantial completion, regardless of discovery. Qualifying home warranties shorten it to 6 years; a claim letter adds 2.