ABOUT THE FIRM

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At Sears Bennett & Gerdes, LLP, we are a Texas-based law firm with a deep, exclusive focus on Community Association Law. For years, we have represented Property Owners Associations (POAs) and Homeowners Associations (HOAs) across the state—including condominiums, townhomes, single-family subdivisions, master-planned communities, and commercial associations.

We understand that successful communities rely on more than just rules—they rely on good governance, fair enforcement, and informed decision-making. Our firm partners with association boards and property managers to provide the trusted legal counsel they need to serve their communities with confidence and clarity.

What Sets Us Apart

Focused Experience
Property Owner’s Association law is not just one of our practice areas—it’s our primary focus. Our attorneys bring years of hands-on experience advising and defending governing boards through every legal challenge they face. We understand the nuances of Texas POA law better than most because we live and breathe it every day.

Direct Access to Experienced Attorneys
We’re known for being accessible, practical, and solutions-oriented. When our clients call, we answer. When issues arise, we respond—quickly, clearly, and with your community’s best interest in mind.

Strategic Guidance, Not Just Answers
We don't just recite statutes — we offer clear, actionable recommendations based on your specific community's goals. Whether drafting documents, collecting assessments, or advising on compliance, we work to prevent problems before they escalate, helping boards make decisions that stand up to scrutiny and serve the long-term goals of the community.

Commitment to Education & Compliance
We actively monitor legislative and regulatory developments that affect POAs and HOAs throughout Texas, ensuring our clients remain compliant and informed.

Our Commitment

We’re dedicated to helping community associations succeed—both legally and practically. Our focus is to support boards and managers in building strong, well-governed, and harmonious communities.

We help associations:

  • Operate confidently and within the law

  • Enforce rules fairly and consistently

  • Protect and enhance property values

  • Foster cooperation and neighborly living

But our commitment goes beyond handling legal matters. We invest in the long-term success of every community we serve. That means providing clear, proactive guidance, advocating fiercely when needed, and always keeping the association’s best interest at the forefront.

Our experienced team is responsive, accessible, and deeply familiar with the challenges communities face. We stay ahead of legal changes so your community stays informed, compliant, and prepared—today and into the future.

Partner With Us

If your board is seeking experienced, proactive legal counsel, we invite you to learn more about our firm and how we can help. We’re ready to serve as your legal partner—today, and for years to come. Whether your association needs ongoing legal representation or help with a specific matter, Sears Bennett & Gerdes, LLP is ready to help.

Looking for legal counsel for your community? Submit a Request for a Free Proposal, and a member of our team will be in touch promptly.

 
 

 

Practice Areas

 

Property Owners Association Law

We represent community associations of all types—single-family subdivisions, condominiums, townhomes, and master-planned communities—offering day-to-day legal counsel and long-term strategic guidance. Our firm helps boards govern effectively, enforce rules, and resolve disputes while ensuring compliance with Texas law and governing documents.

Our services include:

  • Drafting and amending Declarations, Bylaws, Certificates of Formation, and Policies

  • Advising on Architectural Guidelines, Board Resolutions, and Rules

  • Guidance on elections, meeting procedures, and director removal

  • Collections of assessments and enforcement of deed restrictions

  • Representation in homeowner disputes, including negotiation and litigation

  • Attorney attendance at Board and Member meetings to support governance and compliance

  • Legal opinions and evaluation of statutory and regulatory compliance

We aim to save associations time and money through effective counsel and proactive planning. When litigation is necessary, we are fully prepared to prosecute or defend your association in court.

Focus Areas:

  • Community Association Governance

  • Assessment Collections

  • Deed Restriction Enforcement

  • Legal Compliance Reviews

  • Bankruptcy & Creditor Representation

  • Meeting Preparation & Support

  • Cost-Effective Legal Strategies

 
 

Real Estate Law

We provide practical legal support for individuals, investors, associations, and developers in all types of real estate transactions—residential, commercial, and land-based. From purchase to closing, our attorneys handle every step with precision.

Focus Areas:

  • Closings & deed transfers

  • Residential & commercial transactions

  • Contract drafting & negotiation

  • Title research & resolution

  • Leasing (retail, office, industrial)

  • Landlord-tenant disputes & evictions

  • Builder/homebuilder representation

  • Development & land acquisition

  • Easements & restrictive covenants

  • Entity formation for asset protection

  • Financing, loan workouts & foreclosures

  • Public-private partnership agreements

Whether you're buying, selling, leasing, or developing property, we help protect your investment and streamline the process.

Business Law

We help clients form, structure, and protect their businesses, while providing ongoing legal support for everyday challenges and long-term success.

Focus Areas:

  • Entity formation: LLCs, Series LLCs, LLPs, Corporations, S-Corps, Partnerships

  • Contract review and negotiation

  • Corporate governance and compliance

  • Creditor/debtor matters and collections

  • Dispute resolution and business negotiations

We bring clarity, confidence, and legal protection to every stage of your business.