Cobb & Johns PLLC

For Texans, the right to private property is a foundational principle, deeply embedded in our state's history and legal system. Yet, property owners often find themselves facing daunting challenges, whether it's the threat of eminent domain, complex land use disputes, or disagreements with governmental entities. Navigating these battles requires not just legal knowledge, but a deep understanding of how local and state government operates, and a tenacious commitment to defending individual rights. In Austin, one law firm stands out as a powerful ally for those confronting such formidable adversaries: Cobb & Johns PLLC. This article aims to provide a clear, engaging, and informative overview of Cobb & Johns PLLC, helping locals in the Texas region learn more about the expert advocacy available to protect their most valuable assets and ensure their voices are heard.

Cobb & Johns PLLC is a highly respected Austin-based law firm that has carved out a unique niche in defending property rights and handling complex government disputes. Unlike larger, more generalized firms, Cobb & Johns focuses its expertise on these critical areas, offering specialized legal "Special Forces for Complex Property and Government Disputes." They understand how unsettling it can be when your property or business is under attack by "uncaring and powerful forces within government and corporate bureaucracies." The firm is committed to helping clients assert their rights and protect their future, promising to "have your back" when you stand up and fight. This dedication is exemplified by their attorneys, such as Chris Johns, who has not only achieved significant victories, like shutting down multi-billion-dollar pipeline projects and securing top-end compensation in takings cases, but also literally taught eminent domain and private property rights at the University of Texas School of Law for seven years. Similarly, Bill Cobb brings extensive experience in administrative law, government contracts, and legislative affairs. Their combined experience and focused approach make Cobb & Johns PLLC a formidable advocate for Texans facing some of their most challenging legal battles.

Accessibility is a crucial factor when choosing legal representation, particularly for matters as significant as property rights and governmental disputes. For residents and businesses throughout Central Texas, Cobb & Johns PLLC offers a highly convenient and strategically located office in the heart of Austin, facilitating easy access for consultations and meetings.

While the provided information lists the address as 501 Congress Ave. STE 150, Austin, TX 78701, USA, it's worth noting that some public profiles, including Super Lawyers, indicate an office location at:

13341 W U.S. 290, Building 2, Austin, TX 78737

Clients should confirm the preferred meeting location when scheduling an appointment. Both locations offer distinct advantages. The Congress Avenue address places the firm squarely in downtown Austin's vibrant business and legal hub, providing a professional and central setting. For those closer to the west side of Austin or coming from outside the immediate urban core, the U.S. 290 location might offer easier access with potentially more convenient parking options, away from the downtown traffic. Regardless of the specific suite, the firm’s Austin presence ensures excellent connectivity via major roadways. For clients needing to visit the office, various public parking options are typically available near both potential addresses, and Austin’s public transportation network provides alternative travel methods. The firm’s commitment to client convenience is evident in their strategic positioning within the greater Austin area, making their specialized legal services readily available to those who need them most.

Cobb & Johns PLLC is a specialized law firm focusing on areas that are critical for protecting the rights of property owners and businesses dealing with governmental entities in Texas. Their primary service areas include:

• Eminent Domain and Condemnation: Representing landowners facing the government’s power to take private property for public use. This includes fighting "takings" cases, ensuring "just compensation" for property, and even challenging the legality of proposed projects. Their experience extends to pipeline, road, and electric-line condemnation cases, with a proven track record of significant outcomes.

• Complex Property Disputes: Handling a broad range of disputes related to property rights beyond eminent domain, such as boundary disputes, easement issues, and cases where government actions wrongfully claim power over private property, impacting its use or development. They represent clients across the country in these types of cases.

• Government Disputes and Administrative Law: Representing businesses and individuals in disputes with government agencies. This includes assisting clients who have received a Civil Investigative Demand from the Texas Attorney General, aiding losing bidders in protesting government contract awards, and ensuring compliance with complex Texas laws and regulations.

• Land Use and Zoning: Guiding clients through the intricacies of land use regulations, including efforts to get property out of the Extraterritorial Jurisdiction (ETJ) and navigating zoning challenges to facilitate development.

• Civil Appeals: Providing strong appellate advocacy. The firm's attorneys have briefed and argued high-stakes cases in the U.S. Supreme Court and in federal and state appeals courts across the country, focusing on simplifying complex issues and making compelling arguments.

Their approach is characterized by deep commitment and creative advocacy, aimed at achieving their clients' goals.

Cobb & Johns PLLC stands out in the Texas legal landscape due to several key features and highlights that underscore their specialized expertise and commitment to clients:

• Focused Specialization: Unlike general practice firms, Cobb & Johns PLLC offers highly focused expertise in property rights, eminent domain, and government disputes. This specialization ensures clients benefit from an unparalleled depth of knowledge and experience in these specific, often complex, areas.

• Proven Track Record in Eminent Domain: Christopher S. Johns, a key attorney at the firm, has a remarkable record of success in eminent domain cases. This includes "shutting down multi-billion-dollar pipeline projects and obtain top-end compensation for clients in takings cases." This demonstrates a powerful ability to deliver significant results against powerful adversaries.

• Academic and Practical Expertise: Chris Johns' experience teaching eminent domain and private property rights for seven years at the University of Texas School of Law highlights a unique blend of theoretical knowledge and practical application, providing clients with insights directly from an academic authority on the subject.

• Experienced Appellate Advocates: The firm's attorneys have experience briefing and arguing high-stakes cases at the highest levels, including the U.S. Supreme Court and various federal and state appeals courts. This capability is crucial for clients whose cases may proceed beyond trial.

• Recognition by Best Law Firms®: Cobb & Johns PLLC has been recognized by Best Law Firms®, with Tier 1 rankings in Austin for Commercial Litigation and Tier 2 for Legal Malpractice Law - Defendants. They also hold Tier 3 rankings for Administrative / Regulatory Law and Environmental Law, indicating strong peer and client recognition for their expertise in these areas.

• "Super Lawyers" Recognition: Attorneys at Cobb & Johns, such as Bill Cobb and Christopher S. Johns, have been recognized by Super Lawyers, a testament to their high degree of peer recognition and professional achievement.

• Client-Centric Philosophy: The firm emphasizes understanding "how upsetting – and even frightening - it can be when your property or business is under attack," and promises to provide "compassion, understanding, and support," ensuring clients feel supported throughout their legal journey.

• Strategic and Creative Advocacy: They are known for providing "experienced and creative advocates" who "craft the strategy and execute the tactics to achieve your goals," suggesting a proactive and results-oriented approach to their cases.

In the legal profession, particularly for specialized areas like eminent domain and governmental disputes, it is not common practice for law firms to offer traditional "promotions" or "special offers" in the retail sense. This is due to the unique and often complex nature of each client's legal needs and the ethical guidelines that govern legal services. However, Cobb & Johns PLLC does offer a valuable and highly beneficial initial service that is particularly helpful for Texans considering legal action related to property or government disputes:

• Free Initial Consultation: Cobb & Johns PLLC explicitly offers a "free initial consultation." This is a significant advantage, allowing potential clients to call or email to schedule a meeting where they can explain their legal issue and discuss how they would like it resolved, all without any upfront cost. This initial discussion provides a crucial opportunity for individuals and businesses to gain preliminary insights into their legal challenges, understand potential strategies, and determine if Cobb & Johns PLLC is the right fit to advocate on their behalf, without any financial obligation or pressure.

This commitment to providing an accessible entry point for legal advice underscores their client-focused philosophy and dedication to serving the local community.

For Texans who require expert legal assistance with property rights, eminent domain, or complex government disputes, here is the essential contact information for Cobb & Johns PLLC:

• Phone: (512) 399-3150

• Mobile Phone: +1 512-399-3150

• Address: 501 Congress Ave. STE 150, Austin, TX 78701, USA (Please note, Super Lawyers also lists 13341 W U.S. 290, Building 2, Austin, TX 78737. It is advisable to confirm the best office for your consultation when calling.)

It is recommended to call during regular business hours to schedule your free initial consultation and discuss your specific legal needs. Direct phone contact is typically the most efficient way to initiate your inquiry and set up an initial meeting with their team.

For locals throughout Texas, especially those in the Austin area facing challenges to their property rights or engaged in disputes with governmental entities, Cobb & Johns PLLC is an exceptional choice. Their highly specialized focus on eminent domain, complex property disputes, and administrative law means clients benefit from attorneys who are not just knowledgeable, but deeply experienced and creatively strategic in these critical areas. The firm’s impressive track record, particularly in fighting against powerful institutions and securing significant outcomes for landowners, provides immense reassurance. Furthermore, the academic authority brought by attorneys like Chris Johns, who has taught at the University of Texas School of Law, combined with their hands-on litigation experience, ensures a comprehensive and effective approach. For Texans who feel their property or business is threatened and who believe in standing up for their rights, Cobb & Johns PLLC offers the dedicated and formidable advocacy needed to protect their interests and achieve justice.