The Role of Black Boxes in Trucking Litigation

Black Boxes, or event data recorders (EDRs), are becoming increasingly common evidence in trucking litigation[1]. Here’s how Black Boxes can help you protect your trucking or insurance company in trucking litigation. Black Boxes are electronic devices installed in both commercial and consumer vehicles that record data such as speed, braking, acceleration, and other vehicle performance […]

Assessing Damages in Products Liability Cases: Calculating Economic and Non-Economic Losses

When a defective product causes injury or damage, victims may be entitled to compensation for their losses. Assessing damages in products liability cases can be complex, as damages can include both economic and non-economic losses. Economic Damages Traditionally, economic damages refer to the tangible or direct financial losses that result from an injury or damage […]

Addressing Post-Closing Obligations in Stock Purchase Agreements

A stock purchase agreement (SPA) is a legal document that spells out the circumstances of buying and selling stock in a firm.[1] The post-closing obligations, which are the buyer’s and seller’s responsibilities following the transaction’s conclusion, are one of the essential elements of the SPA process. Strategies for Addressing Post-Closing Obligations Post-closing obligations typically involve the […]

How are Non-Compete Clauses Enforced in Texas?

Non-compete clauses are frequently found in employment contracts, and come up often in commercial litigation. Their purpose is to stop employees from starting a competing firm or working for competitors for a set amount of time after leaving their present job. [1] Non-compete agreements are enforceable in Texas but are subject to stringent conditions.[2] Requirements for Enforcing […]

Estate Planning Mistakes to Avoid in Texas: Common Missteps and How to Prevent Them

An “estate plan” is an arrangement for protecting, investing, and transferring assets both during a person’s lifetime and after.[1] Estate planning is a critical aspect of financial planning, and mistakes can have significant consequences for you and your loved ones. Here are some common estate planning mistakes and tips to avoid them. Procrastination Many people postpone estate planning because they believe they will have time to handle it later. Just 34% of adult Americans have an estate plan and 37% of respondents said they didn’t have a […]

What Does Year-End Compliance Mean for Your Organization?

The Corporate Transparency ActStarting January 1, 2024, the Corporate Transparency Act (CTA) requires many companies to disclose information about their beneficial owners by filing a Beneficial Owner Information Report (BOIR) with the Financial Crimes Enforcement Network (FinCEN), a bureau of the U.S. Department of Treasury. The goal of BOIRs is to increase transparency and combat […]

CTA and BOI Reporting Rule Temporarily Halted: What It Means for U.S. Businesses

Most U.S. legal entities are required to comply with the Corporate Transparency Act (CTA) by reporting their beneficial ownership information (BOI) to the Financial Crimes Enforcement Network (FinCEN). This requirement applies unless the entity qualifies for one of the limited exemptions. Under the CTA, reporting companies have until January 1, 2025, to file their BOI […]

Fort Worth Magazine Names 5 Cotten Schmidt Attorneys as 2024 Top Attorneys

Five attorneys from Cotten Schmidt have been recognized in Fort Worth Magazine’s 2024 Top Attorneys list. This annual honor, determined through peer nominations, celebrates outstanding legal expertise and dedication. The full list can be found in the magazine’s December issue and online. Cotten Schmidt attorneys recieving Top Attorney recognition this year include: “We are deeply […]

Cotten Schmidt Secures Spotlight in Chambers 2025 Texas Guide for General Commercial Litigation

Fort Worth, Texas – Cotten Schmidt is proud to announce its inclusion in the Chambers 2025 Spotlight Guide under the Texas Spotlight category for General Commercial Litigation. This prestigious recognition reflects the firm’s commitment of over 30 years to delivering exceptional legal services in Texas. “Being highlighted by Chambers is a tremendous honor for us,” said […]

From Litigation to Resolution

Cotten Schmidt is pleased to announce the launch of a new Mediation and Arbitration Practice Group, expanding the ways we serve attorneys, clients, and the courts in Fort Worth and beyond. Why We’re Launching This Practice In recent years, securing timely mediation has become increasingly difficult, with limited availability often pushing matters weeks or months […]