Litigation

Expert Litigation Services

When disputes over property taxes escalate, litigation may become necessary to achieve a fair resolution. The Ambrose Group offers expert litigation services to help property owners contest and potentially lower their property tax assessments through the court system. Our team of experienced tax consultants provide comprehensive support throughout the litigation process, ensuring that your case is presented effectively and persuasively.

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Our litigation services include:

  • Case Preparation: We gather and analyze all necessary data, including comparable sales, income and expense data, and market trends, to build a strong case.
  • Legal Support: We work closely with your legal team to provide expert advice and support throughout the litigation process.
  • Expert Testimony: Our experienced tax consultants provide expert testimony to support your case, ensuring that the court has all the information needed to make an informed decision.
  • Resolution Support: We assist with the resolution of disputes, ensuring that the final decision is implemented accurately and fairly.
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Why Choose The Ambrose Group For Property Tax Litigation Services?

The Ambrose Group stands out as a trusted real estate company for several compelling reasons:

Experience and Expertise: Our team comprises certified appraisers with decades of experience across various property types. Whether it’s residential or commercial, we bring a wealth of knowledge to every valuation.

High-Quality Standards: We adhere to the highest industry standards, ensuring that our valuations are precise and dependable. Our commitment to accuracy sets us apart.

Cutting-Edge Technology and Resources: Leveraging advanced technology and resources, we provide timely and efficient appraisal services. Our modern approach streamlines the process for our clients.

Client-Centric Approach: At The Ambrose Group, client satisfaction is paramount. We maintain clear communication throughout the appraisal process, fostering transparency and trust.

Comprehensive Services: From commercial properties to residential homes, we offer a full range of services to meet all your real estate valuation needs.

The Ambrose Group Property Tax Litigation Process

Engaging in property tax litigation is time-sensitive, and we have gained our client’s trust by maintaining clear communication throughout each step of the process. Our detailed approach ensures that every aspect of the case is thorough, accurate, and tailored to meet your specific needs.

We begin by understanding the purpose of property tax litigation—whether it’s contesting property tax assessments or appealing tax valuations. The scope is adjusted to meet specific property types, legal needs, and applicable tax regulations.

Determine Elegibility for Litigation

  • You must have filed a timely protest with the ARB and received their final determination.
  • The lawsuit must address issues such as:
    • Incorrect market value.
    • Unequal appraisal compared to similar properties.
    • Errors in property use or classification.
  • Litigation is typically used for complex cases or high-value properties where arbitration or informal resolution isn’t viable.

Filing the Lawsuit

  • Deadline: The lawsuit must be filed within 60 days of receiving the ARB’s written order.
  • Venue: File the lawsuit in the district court for the county where the property is located.
  • Parties: The lawsuit is filed against the appraisal district or the local taxing entities responsible for the assessment.
  • Filing Fees: You will need to pay court filing fees, which vary by county.
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Law

Hiring Representation

  • The Ambrose Group uses experienced real estate attornys who specialize in property tax litigation.
  • The attorney will:
    • Draft and file the lawsuit.
    • Represent you in negotiations and court proceedings.
    • Help you gather and present evidence to support your case.

Discovery and Pretrial Negotiations

  • Discovery Phase:
    • Both sides exchange information, including:
      • Property appraisal records.
      • Evidence of market value (e.g., comparable sales data, appraisals, or income/expense records for commercial properties).
      • Deposition of witnesses, including appraisers.
  • Settlement Negotiations:
    • Many cases are resolved during pretrial negotiations between your attorney and the appraisal district.
    • A successful settlement can result in reduced valuation and avoid a trial.

Trial Preparation

  • If a settlement cannot be reached, the case proceeds to trial.
  • Your attorney will prepare by:
    • Gathering expert witnesses (e.g., certified appraisers).
    • Creating exhibits and visual aids to explain property valuation issues.
    • Preparing arguments based on Texas property tax law and your specific circumstances

Trial

    • Bench Trial or Jury Trial:
      • In Texas, property tax disputes are usually bench trials (decided by a judge), but you can request a jury trial if preferred.
    • Arguments:
      • You present evidence demonstrating that the ARB’s decision was incorrect.
      • The appraisal district defends its valuation and methodology.
    • Decision: The court will issue a judgment on the property’s value.
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Post-Trial Actions

  • Appeal: If you disagree with the court’s decision, you may file an appeal in the Texas Court of Appeals.
  • Tax Adjustment: If the court lowers your property’s appraised value, the taxing entities will issue a revised tax bill or refund any overpayments.

Costs and Risks

  • Legal Fees: Litigation can be costly, as it involves filing fees, attorney fees, and potentially expert witness fees.
  • Risk of No Reduction: If the court rules in favor of the appraisal district, you may be responsible for additional legal costs.

By following this detailed and client-focused process, The Ambrose Group ensures that each property tax litigation case is handled thoroughly and strategically, empowering clients to achieve a fair tax outcome.

FAQ About Litigation

What is litigation?
Litigation is the process of resolving disputes through the court system, where a judge reviews the evidence and makes a binding decision.
Why might I need litigation services?
You might need litigation services to contest an unfair property tax assessment and potentially lower your property taxes through legal means.
How do litigation services benefit property owners?
They provide a thorough and formal resolution to disputes, with the potential for significant reductions in property tax assessments.
How long does the litigation process take?
The duration varies based on the complexity of the case, but the process typically takes several months to a few years.
What factors are considered in litigation?
Factors include comparable sales data, property condition, income and expense data, and any discrepancies in the assessment.
How is litigation different from arbitration?
Litigation is more formal and typically takes longer than arbitration, with decisions made by a judge rather than an arbitrator.
Can I use a previous litigation decision for a new tax year?
Each tax year is assessed independently, so it’s best to have current representation for each new tax year.
What qualifications should a litigation expert have?
A litigation expert should have experience in real estate valuation, knowledge of property tax laws, and expertise in court proceedings.
How much do litigation services cost?
Costs vary based on the scope and complexity of the services, but they typically range from a percentage of the tax savings achieved.
How can I prepare for litigation?
Provide your legal team and experts with detailed information about the property, including any recent assessments, improvements, and relevant financial data.

Contact Trusted Real Estate Consultants

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