Whether or not you can legally evict your roommate in Texas depends largely on the nature of your living arrangement and the legal status of your roommate in relation to the property. Roommate on the Lease If your roommate is on the lease, you both have equal rights to occupy the property under the lease […]
Month: August 2024
How False Advertising is Regulated in Texas
False advertising is a serious concern that can mislead consumers and create unfair market conditions. In Texas, this issue is addressed primarily through the Deceptive Trade Practices Act (DTPA) and the oversight of the Texas Attorney General. Here’s an in-depth look at how false advertising is regulated in Texas. Deceptive Trade Practices Act (DTPA) The […]
How to Use an Elderly Parent to Lower Your Property Taxes
In Texas, homeowners over the age of 65 can benefit from significant property tax exemptions, which can offer substantial financial relief. Understandably, some families consider transferring property ownership to an elderly parent to take advantage of these exemptions. However, this approach comes with potential risks and complications that must be carefully navigated. Here’s what you […]
What to Do When Your Lawyer Won’t Call You Back
One of the most common complaints filed with the Texas State Bar is that a lawyer is not communicating effectively with their client. When you hire a lawyer, you expect them to keep you informed and to respond to your inquiries in a timely manner. However, there are times when this doesn’t happen, and it […]
Do You Need to Disclose a Death When Selling Your Texas Home?
When selling a house in Texas, sellers must complete a Seller’s Disclosure Notice, as required under Texas Property Code Section 5.008. This document is crucial for ensuring that potential buyers are fully informed about the property’s condition. One common question sellers often have is whether they need to disclose a death that occurred on the […]
The Global Landscape of Defamation Law
In the United States, truth serves as an absolute defense in defamation cases. This means that if a statement made about someone is true, it cannot be considered defamatory, regardless of its impact on the person’s reputation. This principle is grounded in the First Amendment, which protects free speech and the press. As such, individuals […]
Understanding Dog Bite Liability in Texas
When it comes to dog bite liability in Texas, the state follows what is commonly known as the “one bite rule.” This rule and other factors determine when a dog owner is held responsible for their pet’s aggressive behavior. Let’s delve into the specifics of this rule and how liability is established. The One Bite […]
Understanding FIRPTA: The Foreign Investment in Real Property Tax Act
FIRPTA, the Foreign Investment in Real Property Tax Act of 1980, is a crucial regulation for anyone involved in real estate transactions with foreign investors. The primary purpose of FIRPTA is to ensure that the U.S. federal government collects capital gains tax from foreign sellers when they dispose of real property interests in the United […]
The Importance of Pulling Permits for Residential Properties in Texas
The Importance of Pulling Permits for Residential Properties in Texas When undertaking work on residential properties, you almost always need to pull permits, and failing to do so can lead to significant liabilities. Here’s a concise look at the permitting process, its importance, and the potential consequences of bypassing it. The Permitting Process Permitting ensures […]