WHAT WE DO
Boundary disputes arise when property owners disagree about the location of property lines, often involving conflicting surveys, unclear deed descriptions, or physical encroachments. These disputes can significantly impact property values, development potential, and business operations, making prompt and effective legal action essential.
At The Pettit Law Firm, we understand that boundary disputes require both legal expertise and technical knowledge of surveying principles, deed interpretation, and Texas property law. Our trial-ready approach ensures that we’re prepared to present complex evidence clearly and persuasively to judges and juries.
Contact UsCommon Boundary Dispute Issues We Handle:
- Conflicting survey results and interpretations
- Unclear or ambiguous deed descriptions
- Physical encroachments onto adjacent properties
- Adverse possession and prescriptive easement claims
- Fence line disputes and agreed boundaries
- Access and easement conflicts
- Quiet title actions
- Trespass claims related to boundary issues
- Development conflicts affecting property lines
- Commercial property boundary determinations
- Subdivision and platting disputes
REPRESENTATIVE EXPERIENCES
Won jury trial defeating 30-year adverse possession claim, protecting inheritance rights – Successfully defended an heir’s property ownership against adverse possession claims, with jury rejecting decades-long occupancy claims and awarding attorneys’ fees to client
Extensive experience in boundary dispute litigation throughout Texas involving residential, commercial, and industrial properties
Types of Evidence We Utilize: Successful boundary dispute resolution requires comprehensive evidence gathering and expert analysis. We work with professional surveyors, title researchers, and historical records experts to build compelling cases that clearly establish property boundaries.
Survey Analysis and Expert Testimony: We often collaborate with licensed professional surveyors to analyze conflicting surveys, identify errors, and present clear evidence of correct boundary locations. Our experience with technical surveying evidence allows us to effectively cross-examine opposing experts and present complex information understandably.
Historical Research and Chain of Title: Many boundary disputes require extensive research into historical records, old surveys, and deed chains. We conduct thorough investigations to uncover evidence that supports our clients’ positions and challenges opposing claims.
Encroachment Resolution: When structures, improvements, or landscaping cross property lines, we pursue appropriate remedies including removal, monetary damages, or negotiated easements depending on our clients’ goals and the specific circumstances.
Commercial Development Impact: For commercial clients, boundary disputes can delay development projects and affect financing. We work efficiently to resolve disputes while protecting our clients’ development timelines and investment expectations.
Our approach emphasizes early case evaluation, strategic discovery, and thorough preparation for trial. We understand that boundary disputes often involve emotionally charged situations between neighbors or business partners, and we work to achieve resolutions that protect our clients’ interests while minimizing ongoing conflicts when possible.
FAQs
Document the encroachment with photos and measurements, review your deed and survey, and contact an attorney immediately. Quick action can prevent the encroachment from becoming a prescriptive easement or adverse possession claim.
Conflicting surveys require careful analysis by qualified professionals. We work with expert surveyors to identify errors, research historical records, and determine the correct boundary location through legal action if necessary.
Title insurance coverage for boundary disputes depends on your specific policy and the nature of the dispute. We can review your policy, pursue coverage when appropriate, and represent you in the underlying dispute regardless of insurance coverage.
A current, accurate survey is often essential for boundary dispute cases. We can recommend qualified surveyors and help ensure the survey addresses the specific issues in your dispute.
Many boundary disputes can be resolved through negotiation, mediation, or agreed boundary line adjustments. However, our trial preparation often leads to better negotiated outcomes because opposing parties know we’re ready to litigate.
We can pursue legal action including quiet title suits, trespass claims, and injunctive relief to establish and enforce correct property boundaries. Courts have authority to determine boundaries and order appropriate remedies.
Timeline depends on case complexity, availability of records, need for expert analysis, and whether parties are willing to negotiate. Simple cases may resolve in months, while complex disputes involving extensive research and expert testimony can take longer.
Contact Us
Want to talk about your case?
Email jpettit@pettitfirm.com
Or contact us at:
The Pettit Law Firm
1900 Pearl, Suite 1740
Dallas, TX 75201
Phone: 214.329.0151
Fax: 214.329.4076