1997 Lawsuit Reforms
Summary Judgment

For a summary of lawsuit reforms adopted in 1997 follow the links below:

Summary Judgment
Wrongful Discharge
Barratry
Fire Rescue Equipment
Out-of-state Lawsuits
Managed Care Responsibility
Interlocutory Appeals
Ice Skating Operators

This revision in the Texas Rules of Civil Procedure gives judges greater authority to dismiss cases that clearly lack evidence.

Many believe the new summary judgment standard will be a powerful tool for Texas courts to weed out meritless suits at an early date, thus saving time and court costs.

This procedural change, approved by the Texas Supreme Court took effect September 1.

The high court also adopted a new standard of liability in wrongful discharge claims. A legislative remedy, HB 768, was passed but deemed unnecessary due to the supreme court's action.


Citizens Against Lawsuit Abuse

2500 City West Boulevard, Suite 300 • Houston, Texas 77042
E-mail: sosueme@calahouston.org • Administrative: (713) 267-2302 • Fax: (713) 267-2267