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Read full answerHi, Typically, you must file an EEO complaint with the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) within 180 days from the date of the discriminatory act. However, if your employer is a state or local government entity, you have 300 days...
Read full answerHiring a lawyer in Katy generally follows a straightforward process. First, identify the area of law you need-help with, for example family law, criminal defense, real estate, personal injury, business, or landlord-tenant matters. Next, research lawyers or law firms that handle that practice area and serve Katy and the surrounding counties. Contact two to four lawyers for an initial consultation to describe your situation, learn how they would handle the matter, and get information about fees and likely timelines. If you decide to move forward, the lawyer will provide a written engagement agreement or retainer letter that explains the scope of work, fee structure, and who will handle your case. Throughout the relationship, communicate clearly about expectations, deadlines, and any changes to your situation.
People in Katy seek legal help for many common reasons. A lawyer can provide advice, protect your rights, negotiate on your behalf, prepare legal documents, represent you in court, and help you avoid costly mistakes. Typical scenarios include:
Family matters such as divorce, child custody, child support, and protective orders. These matters involve Texas family law rules and can have long-term consequences for finances and parental rights.
Criminal charges or traffic offenses where a lawyer can advise on plea options, possible penalties, and court procedures, and can represent you at hearings or trial.
Personal injury or auto-accident claims where you may need help proving fault, documenting damages, negotiating with insurers, or pursuing a lawsuit within Texas time limits.
Real estate and property issues including buying or selling homes, title disputes, boundary or easement problems, homeowners association rules and enforcement, and property tax protests.
Landlord-tenant disputes, evictions, security deposit claims, or lease enforcement, which often move quickly through justice courts and require prompt action.
Business matters such as formation, contracts, employment issues, commercial leases, or disputes with customers or suppliers.
Estate planning and probate including wills, powers of attorney, trusts, and probate administration after a death.
Katy sits in parts of Harris, Fort Bend, and Waller counties in Texas. You should know how jurisdiction and local rules affect your matter.
Court structure - Civil and criminal cases in Katy may be heard in municipal courts, justice of the peace courts, county courts at law, district courts, or federal court depending on the type and seriousness of the case. Municipal courts handle Class C misdemeanors and local ordinance violations. Justice courts handle small civil claims, evictions, and misdemeanor offenses. District courts handle felony criminal cases, divorces, and larger civil disputes.
Key statute time limits - Texas has specific statutes of limitations. For example, most personal injury and property damage claims must be filed within two years from the date of injury or damage. Written contract claims are commonly up to four years. These deadlines can vary with the claim type, so consult a lawyer quickly.
Landlord-tenant and eviction rules - Texas has its own eviction procedures and notice requirements. Evictions often move fast through justice courts, so respond promptly to notices and file the required answers or motions on time.
Homeowners associations and deed restrictions - Many Katy neighborhoods are governed by HOAs. Rules on assessments, architectural controls, and enforcement are governed by covenants and Texas property code provisions. Disputes with HOAs may involve both administrative steps and litigation.
Property taxes and homestead protections - Property owners should be aware of appraisal dates, protest deadlines with county appraisal districts, and the availability of homestead exemptions that reduce taxes. Property-tax and appraisal procedures are administered at the county level.
Floodplain and building rules - Parts of Katy are in flood-prone areas. Local building permits, floodplain rules, and insurance considerations can affect construction, repairs, and real estate transactions.
Start by identifying the practice area you need. Ask for referrals from friends, family, or other professionals. Look for attorneys who list Katy or the surrounding counties in their service area and check their experience in the relevant practice area. Schedule brief consultations to compare approach, fees, and communication style.
Fees depend on the practice area and the lawyer. Common fee structures include hourly rates, flat fees for specific tasks, and contingency fees for personal injury or collection cases. You may also need to pay a retainer upfront. Ask for a written fee agreement that explains billing, costs, and how unused retainer funds are handled.
A local lawyer can be advantageous because they know local courts, judges, prosecutors, and procedural practices. However, lawyers licensed in Texas may represent you even if they are not based in Katy. For matters that require frequent in-person court appearances, a local presence is often helpful.
Bring copies of all relevant documents such as contracts, leases, police reports, correspondence, medical bills, court papers, and notices. Also prepare a short timeline of events, a list of questions, and your objectives. Good preparation helps the lawyer give practical advice during the consultation.
Timelines vary widely by case type. Some matters like simple uncontested divorces or small claims can be resolved in weeks to months. Complex civil litigation, contested family law matters, or felony criminal cases can take many months or longer. Your lawyer should provide an estimated timeline based on typical local practice.
Yes, you have the right to represent yourself, but the legal system can be complex. Self-representation can be risky in criminal, family law, or high-stakes civil matters. For small claims or simple proceedings, some people proceed pro se successfully. If you are unsure, consult a lawyer for at least a limited scope representation or advice.
Check whether the attorney is licensed to practice in Texas and whether any disciplinary actions exist. You can contact state regulatory resources or the State Bar of Texas for licensing and disciplinary information. During your interview, ask about the lawyer’s experience, trial history, and references.
If you cannot afford private counsel, look for legal aid organizations, pro bono programs, or low-cost clinics. For criminal cases, if you qualify, a public defender or court-appointed attorney may be available. Many law firms also offer limited-scope representation or payment plans. Ask about those options at your initial meetings.
In a contingency fee arrangement the lawyer is paid a percentage of the recovery if you win or settle. If you recover nothing, you typically do not pay attorney fees, though you might still be responsible for certain case expenses. The contingency percentage and expense handling should be clearly stated in a written agreement.
You have the right to change lawyers. Review your fee agreement for any withdrawal or termination terms and potential outstanding fees. Notify your current lawyer in writing and sign a new engagement agreement with your new lawyer. The new lawyer can handle transfer of files and notifications to the court or opposing counsel as needed.
Below are official governmental resources and other organizations that can help you find information or get assistance.
Texas Judicial Branch - general information about courts and procedures:
Texas Statutes and Codes - official Texas laws and statutes:
Office of the Attorney General of Texas - consumer protection, child support, and other state resources:
United States Courts - federal court information and resources:
Texas Department of Public Safety - driving records, criminal history requests, and related matters:
Local county government resources - county court and county services for areas that include Katy. Search for Harris County, Fort Bend County, or Waller County official websites for court locations, calendars, and local procedures. Example county sites include the Harris County official site: and the Fort Bend County official site:
Other helpful organizations to contact by name - these may not be governmental but can assist: State Bar of Texas for lawyer referral services, local bar associations such as the Harris County Bar Association, free or low-cost legal aid providers, and TexasLawHelp for self-help legal forms and information.
1. Clarify your legal issue and desired outcome. Be realistic about what you want to achieve and what timeline you can accept.
2. Gather documents. Collect contracts, bills, notices, photos, police reports, communications, and any deadlines or court papers. Create a concise timeline of events.
3. Contact potential lawyers. Schedule consultations, prepare questions about experience, fees, likely outcomes, and how the lawyer communicates. Ask for a written fee agreement before hiring.
4. Check credentials. Verify the attorney is licensed in Texas and has no unresolved disciplinary matters. Ask about relevant experience in the Katy area or in the applicable county court.
5. Act on deadlines. If you have a statute of limitations, an eviction notice, or a court date, notify a lawyer immediately. Missing deadlines can permanently affect your rights.
6. If cost is a concern, inquire about limited-scope representation, payment plans, contingency-fee arrangements, or referrals to legal aid or pro bono programs.
7. Keep records of everything and maintain regular, documented communication with your lawyer. Request written confirmations of major decisions and a clear explanation of costs and next steps.
If you are facing an emergency such as arrest or imminent eviction, contact a lawyer right away or seek court-appointed counsel if eligible. For non-emergencies, start with a short list of experienced local attorneys and schedule consultations to find the best fit for your needs.
