2019 Legislature Narrows Texas Citizens Participation Act to Clean Up Eight-Year Mess
On June 2, 2019, Governor Abbott signed a bill amending the Texas Citizens Participation Act (“TCPA” or “Act”) to clarify and narrow its scope. The changes will help slow a years-long torrent of litigation over the meaning and reach of the legislation. In 2011, the 82nd Legislature passed the TCPA to protect citizens’ rights to […]
Best Lawyers® in America 2020 Recognizes 13 Branscomb Law Attorneys
Branscomb Law congratulates its lawyers included on the list: Austin Jeff Dickerson (2010) Corporate Law Jim Robichaux (2007) Commercial Litigation; Mass Tort Litigation / Class Actions – Defendants Craig Williams (2008) Real Estate Law Corpus Christi Jim Clancy (2012) Commercial Litigation Omar Leal (2013) Trusts and Estates Scott Sherman (2008) Trusts and Estates; Litigation – […]
Texas Supreme Court: You Can’t Claim Fraud If It’s in Writing and You Signed It
The Texas Supreme Court recently reaffirmed a contracting party’s ability to protect itself from liability for fraudulent inducement by bargaining for specific disclaimers of reliance on any extra-contractual statements. This decision serves as an important reminder of the power of such disclaimers, which can even bar actions based on post-signing misrepresentations if the parties later […]
Applications for Open-Space Agricultural Use Appraisal—What You Need to Know to Protect Your Ag Use Valuation
If you own land and have claimed an agricultural exemption, you may be familiar with the Texas Comptroller’s Application for 1-d-1 (Open-Space) Agricultural Use Appraisal. Certain landowners have recently received notices—surprisingly, in some cases—from their appraisal districts requesting that they file a new application, despite having previously received the appraisal. The precise reasons for reapplication […]
As Employers, Ranch Owners Should Consider Workers Compensation Coverage
In Texas, it is common for large landowners to engage in ranching as a business. The reasons may vary from providing the sole or major source of income for the owners to retaining certain tax exemptions for the property. Regardless of the reason for engaging in ranching operations, there are certain risks and liabilities to […]
Best Lawyers in America® 2019 Recognizes 13 BRANSCOMB LAW Attorneys
BRANSCOMB LAW congratulates its lawyers included on the list: Austin Jeff Dickerson (2010) Corporate Law Jim Robichaux (2007) Commercial Litigation, Mass Tort Litigation / Class Actions – Defendants Craig Williams (2008) Real Estate Law Corpus Christi Jim Clancy (2012) Commercial Litigation Omar Leal (2013) Trusts and Estates Scott Sherman (2008) Trusts and Estates, Litigation – Trusts and Estates Mike Stukenberg (1997) Trusts […]
Texas Bar Journal Recognizes BRANSCOMB LAW Partner’s Passion for Yoga
Traditionally, exercise has been valued primarily for its physical benefits, such as heart health, lower blood pressure, and an overall healthier physique. However, in the past decade, social scientists have compiled evidence suggesting additional benefits of regular exercise: cognitive improvements such as increased mental stamina, improved concentration, sharper memory, and reduced stress. The July 2018 […]
Not Responding to Unemployment Claims– A Missed Opportunity
All businesses deal with the unemployment compensation system at some level. Employers subject to the Texas Unemployment Compensation Act (“TUCA”) are required to pay unemployment insurance taxes to the Texas Workforce Commission (“TWC”). When employees cease employment, they may file a claim with the TWC to receive unemployment benefits. However, the unemployment process—particularly representations made […]
Need Training …. #MeToo
The “#MeToo” movement has created a heightened awareness of sexual harassment issues. However, the reports concerning allegations of “inappropriate conduct” have tended to blur the distinction between conduct that constitutes actionable sexual harassment and discrimination in employment and conduct that does not. Also, missing from the discussion is practical information on what employers should and […]
Three Tax Planning Actions to Consider Before the End of 2017
The Tax Cuts and Jobs Act (the “Act”) that was recently passed by Congress and signed into law by the President calls for significant changes to the U.S. tax code. These changes will have a big impact on both individuals and businesses, with most provisions taking effect beginning January 1, 2018. Branscomb Law will provide […]
