The contingency fee model is the primary way personal injury law operates in Texas. For many, it feels like a “no-win, no-fee” safety net; for others, it can look like an attorney taking a significant stake in a client’s misfortune. Understanding how these fees are structured—and the legal rules governing them—is essential for any potential […]
Author: Philip Silberman
Can You File a Claim on Someone Else’s Insurance?
The moments following an auto accident are often a blur of exchanging insurance cards and taking photos of damage. Many Texans leave the scene under a common misconception: that they can simply call the other driver’s insurance company, open a claim, and expect a check. In reality, the legal and contractual structure of insurance in […]
Can You Sue a Seller for SQF Misrepresentation?
When a buyer discovers after closing that their new home has significantly less square footage than the appraisal district or the MLS listing indicated, the immediate reaction is often: “Can I sue?” This article discussed the legal realities of square footage discrepancies, exploring why these cases are often harder to win than they appear. The […]
Do Property Managers Need a License in Texas?
In the Texas real estate world, the line between needing a professional license and operating independently is often drawn at the property’s front door. While the rules may have felt like the Wild West prior to 2011, the Texas Real Estate Commission (TREC) now strictly regulates who can handle rents and deposits for residential properties. […]
Using Two LLCs For Asset Protection
Many business owners hear the advice that they should operate with both a holding company and an operating company. While it might sound like extra paperwork, this “two-LLC” structure is a foundational strategy in Texas asset protection, designed to shield valuable assets from the risks of daily business operations. The Holding Co. vs. The Operating […]
The Truth About Recovering Attorney’s Fees in Texas
One of the most common misconceptions clients have when entering a legal battle is the belief that the “loser pays.” Many people who have been wrongfully sued or are facing what they call a “frivolous” lawsuit assume that once they win, the court will automatically order the other side to reimburse their legal expenses. In […]
Getting Foreign Guardians Approved in Texas
When a person under guardianship moves to a new state, their legal protection doesn’t automatically follow them across state lines. If you are a guardian appointed in another state and your ward has moved to Texas, you must domesticate that guardianship to have the legal authority to act within the Lone Star State. The Application […]
Property Deeds vs. Car Titles
Many people assume that owning a home is just like owning a car—that there is a single piece of paper you hold onto to prove you own it. However, in Texas, the legal reality of property deeds and vehicle titles couldn’t be more different. Understanding these distinctions is critical for anyone buying or selling assets […]
The Legal Checklist for Private Car Sales
While most people choose to trade in their vehicles at a dealership to avoid the hassle, selling a car to a private party can often net a higher price. However, unlike a dealer transaction, the burden of ensuring the legal paperwork is handled correctly falls entirely on you. In Texas, a handshake deal isn’t enough; […]
Bonding Around Contractor Liens in Texas
Facing a surprise mechanic’s lien right before a major real estate closing or refinance can be a nightmare. While many people might try filing a lawsuit to have the lien removed, there is a far more efficient statutory process in Texas that allows for bonding around the lien. What Does It Mean to “Bond Around” […]