In a rapidly evolving business landscape, the state of Texas has taken a significant step forward by enacting Texas House Bill 19 (HB 19), ushering in a new era for business litigation. The introduction of Texas Business Courts represents a substantial shift in how commercial disputes are handled, aimed at increasing efficiency, streamlining complex cases, and bolstering the Lone Star State’s reputation as a business-friendly destination.

The business world is inherently complex, and disputes often involve elaborate legal and financial matters. Texas recognized the need for specialized courts to handle these intricate cases efficiently and effectively. Traditional civil courts, while well-intentioned, often face challenges in managing the complexity and scale of commercial disputes, which could be time-consuming and costly.

Delaware has historically been an attractive state for entity formation and governance because it has established, operational business courts, focused solely on business disputes. With Texas now enacting steps to establish similar types of courts, it should find a renewed interest in businesses and companies wanting to be in Texas, governed by Texas law and the Texas court system.

HB 19 addresses these challenges by establishing specialized Texas Business Courts. These courts are dedicated to handling complex business disputes, including matters such as contract disputes, intellectual property disputes, mergers and acquisitions, and issues related to securities and antitrust laws. The overarching goal is to provide a faster, more predictable, and business-oriented environment for resolving these cases.

Key Features and Benefits of Texas Business Courts

• Specialization: Texas Business Courts are equipped with judges with specialized business and commercial law expertise. They are well-equipped and comprehend the intricacies of complex business disputes, providing a more informed and focused approach to case management.

• Timely Resolutions: HB 19 mandates a strict timeline for the resolution of cases in Texas Business Courts. This accelerates the process, leading to quicker decisions and reducing the uncertainty associated with prolonged legal battles. Handling business disputes with a fixed timeline for case resolution provides predictability and enables businesses to plan more effectively.

• Efficiency and Cost Savings: Texas Business Courts aim to minimize legal costs for businesses involved in disputes. This is especially important for small and medium-sized businesses, which may struggle with the financial burden of protracted litigation.

• Attracting Investment: These specialized courts are designed to provide a business-friendly environment to foster economic growth and encourage companies to invest in Texas. With efficient dispute resolution mechanisms in place, Texas becomes an even more attractive destination for companies and investors, leading to increased economic development and job creation.

Texas House Bill 19 and the establishment of Texas Business Courts mark a significant step forward in the state’s approach to handling complex business disputes. These courts promise to deliver a more efficient, cost-effective, and business-friendly environment for resolving commercial disputes, which is likely to attract more businesses and investment to the state. While challenges and concerns exist, they can be addressed with proper attention and resources to ensure that Texas Business Courts fulfill their intended purpose.

While Texas House Bill 19 went into effect on September 1, 2023, the target date to establish the Texas Business Courts is September 1, 2024, which is the date the courts will start accepting cases. For now, the governor will appoint the judges for two-year terms, which they can be reappointed if appropriate.

As these specialized courts take root and evolve, they have the potential to set a precedent for other states, showcasing how dedicated business courts can bolster economic growth, streamline dispute resolution, and enhance Texas’s reputation as a hub for commerce and innovation. Ultimately, Texas Business Courts under HB 19 represent a promising new frontier for businesses in the Lone Star State.