Texas’ New Eviction Laws & Ending the Squatter Crisis

This week on the Weekly Docket, join Phil and Chris as they break down the major Texas eviction reforms taking effect January 1, 2026. Explore how Senate Bill 38 streamlines the legal process by barring unrelated tenant counterclaims and authorizes the use of email notices for the first time. They also provide an in-depth look at the brand-new summary disposition procedure that allows landlords to evict tenants without a trial. Finally, the duo analyzes the aggressive new "Squatter Law," which empowers owners to use a sworn complaint and the local Sheriff to immediately remove unauthorized occupants without a court order.