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Legal Resources for Texas Consumers
This page is a comprehensive library of legal resources. I know it can be overwhelming, so if you're not sure where to begin, check my "Most Common Resources" section below for a quick start.
For more detailed information, click on any of the categories to expand the list of relevant links.
Start Here: Most Common Resources
The first step for any credit-related issue. This is the only official site to get your free reports from Equifax, Experian, and TransUnion.
Check if a collection agency is legitimate and bonded to operate in Texas before you engage with them.
If you are representing yourself in a Texas Justice Court, these packets provide the necessary forms and instructions.
A great starting point for free, reliable legal information on almost any civil law topic in Texas.
AnnualCreditReport.com: The only official, federally authorized site to get free weekly credit reports from all three major bureaus—Equifax, Experian, and TransUnion.
Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB): A federal agency offering clear, accessible resources on credit reports and consumer rights.
IdentityTheft.gov: The U.S. government’s one-stop resource for reporting and recovering from identity theft. Provides a personalized recovery plan.
Surviving Debt (Digital Book): The NCLC’s highly regarded guide with detailed advice on nearly every debt-related issue, including those affecting your credit.
Fair Debt Collection Practices Act (FDCPA): Full text of the federal law governing how third-party debt collectors may operate.
FTC Debt Collection FAQ: Clear, easy-to-understand answers to common questions about your rights under the FDCPA.
Texas Debt Collection Act (Finance Code Chapter 392): The primary state law outlining prohibited conduct and protections for Texas consumers.
Texas Office of the Attorney General – Debt Collection Rights: A plain-language guide explaining Texas-specific debt collection laws.
Texas SOS Debt Collector Search: Tool to verify if a debt collector is registered and bonded to operate in Texas.
National Do Not Call Registry: Government website to register your number and reduce unwanted telemarketing calls.
- Texas Property Code Chapter 92 (Residential Tenancies): Governs the rights and responsibilities of landlords and tenants in Texas.
TJCTC Evictions Deskbook: Training manual for JP judges on Texas eviction procedures and rules.
City of Austin – Code Compliance Resources: Learn about property standards and report violations such as unsafe living conditions.
City of Austin – Resources for Renters: Official City resources covering tenant rights, rental assistance, and more.
Austin Tenants Council (Project of TRLA): Offers free phone counseling, mediation, and legal help for low-income Austin-area tenants.
BASTA (Building and Strengthening Tenant Action): Austin-based project helping renters organize and advocate for safe, affordable housing.
NAA’s Best Practices in Debt Collections: Industry guide outlining recommended procedures landlords should follow in debt collection.
- Google Scholar: Free search engine for scholarly literature and legal opinions from state and federal courts.
CourtListener: Comprehensive, searchable database of court opinions, dockets, and oral arguments.
Texas State Law Library: Access Texas statutes, administrative rules, and legal research tools.
Texas Court Rules: Official site for statewide rules like the Texas Rules of Civil Procedure and Rules of Evidence.
TJCTC Civil Deskbook: Resource for understanding civil procedures in JP courts, based on judge training materials.
TJCTC Trial Notebook: Provides scripts and checklists for judges conducting trials and hearings.
Texas Comptroller Taxable Entity Search: Verify whether a company is in good standing and legally allowed to sue in Texas.
Journal of Texas Consumer Law: Features analysis and updates on consumer protection issues in Texas.
- TexasLawHelp.org: Free legal information and self-help forms for low-income Texans.
Volunteer Legal Services of Central Texas (VLS): Connects low-income Travis County residents with volunteer attorneys for legal aid.
Austin Lawyer Referral Service (LRS): For a small fee, get connected with a qualified local attorney via the Austin Bar Association.
National Association of Consumer Advocates (NACA): Use their attorney directory to find a consumer protection lawyer near you.
National Consumer Law Center (NCLC): Offers reports, legal tools, and research focused on consumer justice.
Texas Office of Consumer Credit Commissioner (OCCC): Regulates Texas credit industry; allows you to verify licenses and file complaints.
Have Questions? Let's Talk.
Navigating these resources can be confusing, and they may not solve your specific legal problem. If you are dealing with a lawsuit, harassing collectors, or persistent errors on your credit report, the most effective next step is to get professional legal advice.
Schedule a free, confidential consultation to discuss your case directly with me.