Writing a valid will is a critical part of estate planning. In it the testator, the person writing the will, can specify exactly which assets will go to whom. The will also identifies who will be the executor of the estate, the person or persons responsible for carrying out the will and managing taxes, debts, […]
Author: Philip Silberman
Working with a Lawyer When Buying a Home in Texas
The biggest purchase of anyone’s lifetime is usually the purchase of a home. Many home buyers turn to an experienced and qualified real estate agent to help them through the process. An attorney also offers invaluable knowledge and assistance, and for that reason, most states also require a real estate attorney to be included in […]
Employees vs. Independent Contractors in Texas
Growing a successful company means that a business owner will probably need to hire help at some point. A business owner must not only determine the company’s needs but also whether those needs will be best served by independent contractors or employees. An independent contractor’s job expectations and compensation are usually outlined in an independent […]
Tax Forms for Independent Contractors and Employees
Depending on its needs, a company might hire employees, independent contractors, or both. Different kinds of workers sign different kinds of contracts, and taxes for each are handled differently as well. Misclassifying an employee as an independent contractor, or vice versa, means that the withholdings, documentation, and tax forms are incorrect. This mistake is not […]
Requirements of a Mechanic’s Lien Affidavit in Texas
Those who work on and/or supply materials for construction are in great demand in Texas. To protect material suppliers and laborers, Texas allows for mechanic’s lien filings against real estate. Filing such liens increases the chances of payment to contractors or subcontractors by encumbering the property on which they’ve provided labor and/or materials. Requirements According […]
The Constitutional Mechanic’s Lien in Texas
Not surprisingly given the similarity in their titles, the constitutional mechanic’s lien has much in common with statutory mechanic’s lien in Texas. Both safeguard contractors who work for and/or supply materials to a construction site by helping ensure payment through a lien against the property for delinquent payments. One important difference between the two is […]
Mechanic’s Liens in Texas
One of the biggest risks for those who work in residential or commercial construction is the risk of not getting paid for their work and/or supplies. Fortunately, Texas provides a mechanic’s lien, which offers a means for being reimbursed when owners refuse to pay for work and/or supplies. The mechanic’s lien offers relief as long […]
Special Appearances in Texas
If a person or entity is sued in Texas, that person or organization has a right to challenge the state court’s jurisdiction, particularly if that person is a non-resident, the person or entity has no connection to Texas, and/or any property involved is not located in Texas. This type of challenge is called a “special […]
Venue in Texas
Because the venue of a lawsuit may have a significant impact on the outcome of a court case, it is an important consideration for both plaintiff and defendant. A convenient venue makes the already difficult legal process less challenging. Judge and jury predisposition may also vary depending on venue. The effects of the venue are […]
Time to Answer a Lawsuit in Texas
Being served with a lawsuit may be a seemingly unwarranted shock, but the cost of simply ignoring the lawsuit can be quite high. Drafting a timely answer lays important groundwork for a lawsuit and prevents a default judgment against the defendant. Timeframe to Answer The deadline to file an answer to a lawsuit depends on […]