Reference
Plain-English answers about the Texas Business Courts. For deeper analysis, see our opinions & insights.
The Texas Business Courts are a system of specialty trial courts established to handle complex business disputes. The Texas Legislature created the courts through House Bill 19 (HB 19) and Senate Bill 1045 (SB 1045), and they became operational for actions commenced on or after September 1, 2024.
The courts handle a wide range of business disputes including contract disputes, fiduciary duty claims, corporate governance issues, derivative proceedings, and securities claims. Jurisdiction covers cases where the amount in controversy exceeds $5 million or $10 million, depending on the nature of the case.
Initially, the Texas Business Courts are established in major metropolitan areas including Dallas, Austin, San Antonio, Fort Worth, and Houston, with plans to expand to other regions.
Yes. The courts do not have jurisdiction over health care liability claims, claims for bodily injury or death, legal malpractice claims, and certain other specified claims such as those involving consumer transactions or insurance policies.
Yes, cases that meet the jurisdictional criteria can be transferred from other Texas trial courts. There are specific procedures for filing cases directly in the Business Courts or moving cases from other courts.
Yes, parties have the right to a trial by jury when required by the constitution.
Judges are appointed by the Governor of Texas with the advice and consent of the Senate, for an initial term of two years with the possibility of reappointment.
Appeals are heard by the newly created Fifteenth Court of Appeals, which has exclusive intermediate jurisdiction over such matters. The court is based in Austin and initially comprises a chief justice and four other justices.
Yes, judges are expected to issue written opinions explaining their decisions, which aims to enhance predictability and provide concrete guidance on corporate governance, fiduciary duties, and business transactions.
Yes, the courts are developing streamlined procedures and enhanced case management techniques tailored to the unique needs of complex commercial litigation.