Deals and Disputes with The West Webb Law Group

What New Laws Mean for the Public in 2026

Episode Summary:
In this episode of *Deals and Disputes with West Webb Law Group* Hanna Lee and Melissa Koelsch discuss the significant legal changes affecting Texas in 2026. They delve into various topics, including employment disputes, AI regulations, immigration laws, real estate updates, and business tax allowances. Listeners gain valuable insights into how these changes can impact employees, employers, property owners, landlords, and business operations.
Key Timestamps:
00:00 – Introduction
01:30 – Importance of New Year for Legal Changes
03:45 – Impactful AI Regulations in Texas
06:20 – Senate Bill 8 on Immigration Cooperation
08:45 – House Bill 3699 and Unemployment Claims
10:30 – Changes in Insurance Notice Requirements
12:15 – Business Tax Allowance Updates
14:00 – Effects on Employees' Rights and Benefits
16:30 – Senate Bills 1333 and 38 Affecting Properties
18:45 – Business Organizations Code Updates
21:00 – Estate Tax Exemption Changes
23:15 – Importance of Consulting an Attorney
25:00 – Legal Pitfalls to Avoid in Business Transactions
About the Show:
*Deals and Disputes with West Webb Law Group* provides expert legal insights on various aspects of law, empowering individuals and businesses to navigate complex legal landscapes effectively. From employment disputes to real estate laws, this podcast offers valuable information and guidance to help listeners stay legally informed and protected.

The Fine Print: Making Sense of Arbitration Clauses

Episode Summary:In this episode, Jay Rudinger and Terrance Dill from the West Web Law Group delve into the intricacies of arbitration clauses in business contracts. They highlight the significance of these clauses in resolving disputes efficiently and cost-effectively. Listeners gain insights into the pros and cons of arbitration, its enforceability, and how it differs from mediation.
Key Timestamps:00:00 – Introduction01:45 – Definition and importance of arbitration clauses03:30 – Considerations before including an arbitration clause05:15 – Common industries and contracts with arbitration clauses07:00 – Factors to assess before opting for arbitration09:20 – Downsides and risks of arbitration clauses11:10 – Enforceability of arbitration clauses in court13:00 – Smoothness of cases with arbitration clauses14:45 – Distinction between mediation and arbitration16:30 – Importance of consulting an attorney for arbitration clauses18:00 – Wrapping up the episode
About the Show:Deals and Disputes with the West Web Law Group brings legal insights into navigating complex business transactions and resolving disputes effectively. Discover practical guidance on legal matters impacting businesses and individuals. Learn more about the show at westwebblaw.com.

“I’ve Been Called for a Deposition — What Do I Do Now?”

Episode Summary:In this episode, Attorney Cole Geist from West, Webb, Allbritton & Gentry breaks down everything you need to know about depositions — what they are, why they matter, and how to prepare. He explains the process step-by-step, shares the most common mistakes people make, and gives practical tips to help witnesses stay calm, confident, and truthful during questioning.
Key Timestamps:00:00 – Understanding what a deposition is and why someone might be called to give one.02:00 – Why a deposition carries more legal weight than a simple statement.04:00 – How objections work during depositions and when not to answer.06:00 – How attorneys help clients feel comfortable and confident before questioning.08:00 – Oversharing, lack of preparation, and misunderstanding questions.10:00 – How to slow down, take breaks, and ask for clarification.13:00 – Practicing with your attorney and maintaining composure during stressful moments.15:00 – How deposition testimony is used in trial preparation and strategy.17:00 – Why depositions are one of the most important parts of the legal process.
About the Show:Deals and Disputes with West Webb Law Group helps business owners and individuals understand key legal issues in plain language. Each episode features experienced attorneys from West, Webb, Allbritton & Gentry, sharing practical insights to help you navigate contracts, disputes, and litigation with confidence.

Settle It Smarter: Why Mediation & Arbitration Matter

Episode Summary:
In this episode, Attorney Terrance Dill Jr., Senior Counsel at West Webb, Albritton & Gentry, breaks down the difference between mediation and arbitration and how both can save time, stress, and money compared to traditional lawsuits. He explains when each option makes sense, what clients should expect during the process, and how to choose the right mediator or arbitrator for a fair and efficient resolution.
Key Timestamps:
00:00 –  Overview of mediation and arbitration and how they differ from lawsuits.02:00 – How mediation helps parties settle disputes with the help of a neutral mediator.04:00 – Why arbitration serves as an alternative to trial with faster, private outcomes.06:00 – What makes mediation discussions legally protected.08:00 – Why mediation and arbitration reduce uncertainty compared to jury trials.10:00 – How arbitration can be quicker and less expensive than litigation.12:00 – What to expect, including remote participation and breakout sessions.14:00 – Focus, engagement, and persistence in achieving settlements.16:00 – Fairness, organization, and neutrality when rendering decisions.18:00 – How attorneys and clients can select the best mediator or arbitrator for their case.
About the Show:
Deals and Disputes with West Webb Law Group helps business owners and individuals understand complex legal issues in plain English. Each episode features experienced attorneys from West Webb, Albritton & Gentry, sharing insights that make the legal process clearer and less intimidating.

Why Real Estate Deals Need Both a Realtor and an Attorney in Texas

Episode Summary:
In this insightful episode of Deals and Disputes with West Webb, Allbritton & Gentry, Attorney Kris Yager and Realtor Lauren Hartshorn of Magnolia Realty explores how legal and real estate professionals can collaborate to make property transactions smoother, safer, and more efficient.
Kris, who focuses on estate planning, probate, real estate, and business law, and Lauren, a dedicated real estate agent serving Belton and Temple, Texas, break down the most common legal issues that buyers and sellers face — from reading contracts carefully to handling inherited property and avoiding costly probate mistakes.
Together, they share practical insights on why bringing an attorney in early can save money, reduce stress, and prevent legal complications, as well as how tools like trusts and transfer-on-death deeds can help protect a family’s most valuable asset — their home.
Whether you’re a first-time homebuyer or managing a loved one’s estate, this episode offers clear, actionable advice on keeping your real estate deals legally sound and stress-free.
Key Timestamps:
00:00 – Welcome to Deals and Disputes and guest introductions01:00 – Key legal issues to understand when buying or selling a home02:30 – Why buyers and sellers must read and understand contracts fully04:30 – The benefits of involving an attorney early in a real estate transaction06:00 – Realtor perspective: when an attorney’s help makes the biggest impact08:00 – Common probate and estate issues that affect property ownership10:30 – Why having a will isn’t always enough to avoid probate12:00 – How trusts and transfer-on-death deeds simplify inheritance14:00 – The importance of protecting your home — your biggest asset16:00 – How attorneys and realtors build trust and advocate for clients18:00 – Why DIY legal services can create more problems than they solve19:30 – Final thoughts on teamwork, preparation, and peace of mind
About the Show:
Deals and Disputes is a podcast from West Webb, Allbritton & Gentry, where experienced attorneys discuss key issues in business, real estate, estate planning, and dispute resolution. Each episode provides practical insights for individuals and business owners navigating contracts, property law, and legal risks — with real-world advice from professionals who know how to protect your interests before problems arise.

Defamation Defense and Free Speech in Texas: A Legal Deep Dive into the TCPA

Episode Summary:
In this episode of Deals and Disputes, Jay Rudinger, partner at West Webb Allbritton & Gentry, explores the Texas Citizens Participation Act (TCPA)—an anti-SLAPP law aimed at protecting free speech, association, and petitioning rights. Jay explains how the law has evolved since its inception in 2011, where it has been stretched or misused in unexpected ways (like Little League disputes), and how recent amendments have reined it in. The episode dives into real-world applications, its impact on business and employment law, and the strategic importance of understanding TCPA in both filing and defending lawsuits in Texas.
 
Key Timestamps:
 
00:01 – Show Introduction
00:48 – What Is the TCPA and Why Was It Created?
02:15 – What Is a SLAPP Lawsuit?
03:10 – How the TCPA Became a Legal Sledgehammer
05:35 – Business and Employment Cases Affected by the TCPA
08:10 – The “Right of Association” and Misuse in Trade Secret Disputes
10:02 – How the Legislature Responded with Amendments
12:00 – Defamation in the Workplace and Social Media
14:25 – How Courts Interpret “Matters of Public Concern”
16:08 – Legislative and Judicial Adjustments Since 2019
18:22 – TCPA in Attorney Discipline and Malpractice Cases
20:50 – How Interlocutory Appeals Delay Cases for Years
23:10 – What the Definition Section of the TCPA Covers
25:45 – How Defense Attorneys Evaluate TCPA Eligibility
28:00 – Filing a Defamation Lawsuit Under TCPA Rules
30:30 – How to Prepare for TCPA If You're the Plaintiff
32:45 – Final Thoughts on Strategic Use and Legislative Narrowing
34:10 – Closing Remarks and Contact Info
 
About the Show:
Deals and Disputes is a legal podcast from West Webb Allbritton & Gentry exploring real-world issues in business, litigation, and personal legal matters. Join our attorneys as they break down complex laws into clear, actionable insights for professionals, entrepreneurs, and individuals

Branding, Benefits, and Boundaries: Navigating NIL for Texas Athletes and Institutions

Episode Summary:
In this episode of Deals and Disputes, Asher Gregg, associate at West Webb Allbritton & Gentry, explores the legal evolution of Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) rights for student-athletes in Texas. They break down what NIL really means, how it has transformed college sports, the implications of House Bill 126, and the legal gray areas still surrounding NIL contracts—especially for public universities. Whether you're a college athlete, parent, coach, or business looking to partner with student-athletes, this conversation clarifies the rules and risks in the ever-changing NIL world.
 
Key Timestamps:
 
00:01 – Show Introduction
00:45 – What Does NIL Mean and Why Did It Change So Quickly?
02:10 – How Texas Athletes Can Legally Use Their NIL
04:05 – Prohibited Categories and Common Mistakes in NIL Deals
06:30 – Disclosure Requirements and Compliance Pitfalls
08:00 – Can Universities Legally Support NIL? (House Bill 126)
10:05 – Pushback on House Bill 126 and Concerns About “Free Agency”
12:22 – Sovereign Immunity and Legal Uncertainty in NIL Contracts
15:04 – Impact of NIL on Smaller Colleges and Budget Imbalances
17:10 – Salary Cap Debates and the NCAA v. House Case
18:35 – Legal Advice for Athletes, Universities, and Businesses
21:04 – Could NIL Help Fund Smaller Sports Programs?
23:00 – The Future of NIL: What Happens Next?
25:20 – The “Amateur” Debate and Changing Athlete Identity
27:40 – Education and Financial Literacy for Student-Athletes
29:30 – Final Thoughts and Closing
 
About the Show:
Deals and Disputes is a podcast hosted by West Webb Allbritton & Gentry that explores real-world legal challenges across industries. Whether you're a business owner, professional, or everyday consumer, the show delivers actionable insights and expert commentary on the legal issues shaping your world.

Navigating Higher ED Law: Rights, Risks, and Representation in Academia

Episode Summary:
In this enlightening episode of Deals and Disputes, host Gaines West—partner at West Webb Allbritton & Gentry—dives deep into the complexities of higher education law. Drawing on over five decades of legal experience, Gaines unpacks the unique legal landscape surrounding faculty rights, student protections, tenure disputes, discrimination claims, and the differences between public and private universities. He also addresses Title IX shifts, DEI enforcement, whistleblower incentives, and the importance of understanding your legal remedies within academia.
 
Key Timestamps:
 
00:01 – Show Introduction
00:33 – What Is Higher Education Law?
01:05 – Early Experience at Texas A&M General Counsel’s Office
02:11 – Faculty, Staff, and Student Protections
03:51 – Educating Judges on Higher Ed Legal Standards
05:21 – Employment Law Before Modern Statutes
07:16 – Public vs. Private University Legal Differences
10:39 – How to File Discrimination Claims Properly
12:16 – State vs. Federal Lawsuit Timelines
13:03 – New Sexual Harassment Protections in Texas
14:03 – The Financial Toll of Litigating Against Universities
15:18 – Understanding Your Legal Options
16:36 – Constitutional Issues in Higher Ed Law
17:28 – Evolution of Title IX Over Recent Administrations
18:30 – DOJ Enforcement of DEI Violations via Whistleblowers
20:35 – Helping Professional Students Facing Expulsion
21:32 – Closing Thoughts and Call to Action
 
About the Show:
Deals and Disputes is a podcast by West Webb Allbritton & Gentry that explores real-world legal topics impacting individuals and businesses across Texas. Each episode features practical insights, legal guidance, and stories from the field to help you navigate complex legal terrain with confidence.

More Than a Real Estate Transaction: A Service-Driven Business Approach

Episode Summary:
In this informative episode of Deals and Disputes, experts discuss the complexities of real estate transactions, title insurance, and legal considerations. Shane Nelson from Blue Bonnet Abstract and Title and Brian Hanna from West Web Law Group share valuable insights on the importance of proper documentation, title searches, and legal representation in real estate deals.
 
Key Timestamps:
00:05 - Introduction and episode overview
00:46 - Brian explains typical steps in real estate transactions
02:34 - Shane discusses title clearance and the role of title companies
05:54 - Discussion on the importance of title insurance
09:17 - Detailed explanation of title search process
10:47 - Common legal challenges and red flags in real estate transactions
15:54 - Early stage preparation tips for real estate transactions
 
About the Show:
Deals and Disputes with West Web Law Group explores pressing legal challenges and provides expert insights into various legal matters. The show features legal professionals and industry experts sharing practical knowledge and experience.

Inside Employment Law: Essential Insights for Business Owners & Employers

Episode Summary:
In this episode of Deals and Disputes, Bailey Rhodes from West, Webb, Allbritton, and Gentry discusses current employment law challenges facing private businesses. The conversation covers remote work considerations, wrongful termination, DEI policies, and state-specific employment regulations, with a particular focus on Texas employment law.
 
Key Timestamps:
00:05 - Introduction and episode overview
00:42 - Impact of federal employment changes on private businesses
02:19 - Discussion of at-will employment in Texas
04:34 - Factors to avoid wrongful termination claims
06:26 - Navigating DEI policies in current climate
09:19 - Legal considerations for remote work management
15:32 - Recent impactful employment laws (non-compete agreements and independent contractor classification)
 
About the Show:
Deals and Disputes is a podcast by West, Webb, Allbritton, and Gentry that explores pressing legal challenges affecting businesses today. The show provides valuable insights from experienced attorneys on various legal topics relevant to business owners and professionals.