Beyond the 806
Legislature should bolster Texas barratry statues to protect grieving families - San Antonio Express-News
Even with laws on the books, Texas families facing tragedy might still get harassed by lawyers.
Our state has prohibited this kind of improper contact, often called "ambulance chasing," for years. The investigation, however, uncovers significant loopholes. Certain third parties, sometimes even disguised as nonprofits, might be sidestepping existing regulations. They directly target individuals when they are most fragile, bypassing the original intent of laws designed to offer a buffer during immense personal hardship.
For any Lubbock family dealing with unimaginable grief, perhaps after a serious accident near Loop 289 or a medical emergency in Tech Terrace, this news is unsettling. It means they could be exposed to unwelcome legal solicitations during painful times. Instead of peace, they might face added stress and exploitation. Healing should be their focus, not fending off pitches.
The push is now on for state lawmakers to modernize these decades-old protections, ensuring grief isn't an open invitation for predatory legal pitches across Texas.
Common questions
What is barratry in Texas?
- Barratry in Texas refers to unethical attorney solicitation, commonly known as "ambulance chasing." State laws prohibit lawyers or their agents from improperly contacting individuals, particularly after a tragic event, to pressure them into legal decisions. These statutes aim to protect vulnerable Texans from exploitation.
How are Lubbock families still at risk from barratry?
- Even with existing laws, Lubbock families facing tragedy might still be harassed by lawyers or third parties. Reports indicate significant loopholes in Texas barratry statutes allow some to bypass regulations, targeting individuals when they are most vulnerable and circumventing the law's original protective intent.
What are the problems with current Texas barratry laws?
- Current Texas barratry statutes contain significant loopholes that prevent them from fully protecting grieving families. Investigations reveal that certain third parties, sometimes disguised as nonprofits, can sidestep existing regulations, contacting people right after a loss and pressuring them into legal decisions.
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