At Burk Law Firm, P.C., we understand that businesses involved in commercial disputes need clarity, speed, and strategic legal guidance. If you’re facing a lawsuit or considering filing one, you’re probably wondering: How long will this commercial litigation case take in Travis County?
The answer depends on several key factors—but on average, commercial litigation in Travis County courts can take 12 to 36 months from filing to resolution.
✅ Average Timeline for a Commercial Litigation Case in Austin
Phase Estimated Duration
Case Filing & Service 1–2 months
Pleadings (Motions & Answers) 1–3 months
Discovery Process 6–12 months (can be longer)
Pretrial Motions 1–3 months
Trial Setting & Preparation 3–6 months after discovery
Trial 1–5 days (usually)
Post-Trial Motions / Appeals Varies (6–12+ months)
⚖️ Total Estimate: 1 to 3 years, depending on complexity, court availability, and strategic decisions by the parties.
🧩 Factors That Influence Case Length in Travis County
1. Case Complexity
Multi-party contract disputes, fraud claims, and intellectual property litigation typically take longer.
Simple breach of contract claims or debt recovery cases may resolve faster.
2. Court Docket and Local Efficiency
Travis County District Courts have become more efficient post-COVID, but delays still occur, especially in cases requiring lengthy discovery or multiple hearings.
The new Travis County Civil and Family Courthouse, opened in 2023, has improved case flow—but some backlogs remain in complex commercial dockets.
3. Availability of Judges & Trial Dates
Bench trial dates can be set quicker than jury trials.
Jury trials in Travis County are often pushed further out due to limited court time.
4. Litigation Strategy
Aggressive discovery or excessive motion practice can delay resolution.
Settlement efforts, mediation, or early summary judgment motions may shorten the timeline.
5. Use of Mediation or Arbitration
Many cases are resolved through mediation before trial—especially in Austin, where courts often require mediation before trial.
📍 Local Insight: Commercial Litigation in Austin, Texas
Austin’s business climate has driven a rise in commercial litigation, especially in real estate, tech contracts, and partnership disputes. Travis County courts are familiar with complex corporate matters but operate on a busy civil docket.
At Burk Law Firm, P.C., our Austin commercial litigation attorneys know the local rules, judges, and strategic timing factors that can move a case forward or bog it down.
⏱️ Want to Resolve Your Dispute Faster?
Burk Law Firm, P.C. offers strategic, aggressive representation to protect your interests and minimize downtime. Whether you’re suing for breach of contract or defending a business tort claim, we help you navigate Austin’s court system with clarity and control.
📞 Contact our experienced Austin commercial litigation attorneys today for a consultation and case strategy review.