A cloud on title is any adverse claim, lien, or recorded document that casts doubt on your ownership. Clouded title can reduce a property's marketability, interfere with a sale or refinance, and invite future litigation. Texas offers legal actions to clear it.

They are related but distinct. A suit to quiet title is an equitable action to remove an invalid or competing claim from the record and confirm that your ownership is superior. A trespass-to-try-title action, governed by Chapter 22 of the Texas Property Code, is the statutory method for determining who holds title and awarding possession of the land. Some disputes — for example, a fraudulently recorded deed on occupied property — require both in the same lawsuit.

When adjoining owners claim the same strip of land and negotiation fails, Texas law allows the dispute to be resolved in court. Where the sole issue is the location of the proper boundary line, a declaratory-judgment action may be available; where possession and ownership of the strip are contested, trespass to try title may be the vehicle.

Adverse possession lets someone acquire title to land they do not own by possessing it in a way that is actual, open, hostile, and continuous for a statutory period — often ten years for a typical fence-line or encroachment dispute. Meeting the elements gives a legal right to the land but not an automatic recorded deed; a court action is generally needed to establish record title. The most effective defense is acting before the limitations period runs.

The firm is based in Austin and represents clients throughout Texas, primarily in Travis County, Williamson County, and Bastrop County.

Board certification by the Texas Board of Legal Specialization recognizes attorneys who demonstrate substantial experience in a specific area of law, pass a rigorous examination, and receive peer review.Brent Devere is board certified in four areas: consumer law, commercial law, residential and commercial real estate law, and consumer bankruptcy law. Working with a board-certified attorney means your case is handled by a lawyer with proven knowledge, experience, and commitment in their field.

The initial consultation is free. You can call the Austin office or use the contact form to schedule one, and there is no cost or obligation to discuss your situation.

Yes. The firm handles most types of litigation. If your matter isn't listed among the practice areas, contact the office to discuss whether the firm can help.