A lis pendens is filed in the county where the property is located. This is done after litigation affecting title to real property is taken. Requirement for filing a lis pendens in Texas are codified in Tex. Prop. Code 12.007. Texas court cases have laid the foundation, that the person filing the lis pendens must have a direct interest in the ownership of the real property and not simply a collateral interest to recover monetary damages. Although a lis pendens is not a lien, it is often viewed in a similar light and can therefore have the effect of stopping a sale. Why? Because constructive notice of litigation has now been given to potential buyers.

When a Lis Pendens document is filed it must contain a proof of service which is an acknowledgment of service by the person served or a certificate of service. In some cases, the clerk will permit a document to be filed but will require the proof of service to be filed promptly thereafter. 9.5(d)

9.5(e) Certificate Requirements. A certificate of service must be signed by the person who made the service and must state:

(1) the date and manner of service;

(2) the name and address of each person served; and

(3) if the person served is a party's attorney, the name of the party represented by that attorney.

This Document includes a "Certificate of Service" form that can be used by an attorney or party to the case.

Important: County-Specific Forms

Our lis pendens forms are specifically formatted for each county in Texas.

After selecting your county, you'll receive forms that meet all local recording requirements, ensuring your documents will be accepted without delays or rejection fees.

How to Use This Form

Select your county from the list above
Download the county-specific form
Fill in the required information
Have the document notarized if required
Record with your county recorder's office

Common Uses for Lis Pendens

Transfer property between family members
Add or remove names from property titles
Transfer property into or out of trusts
Correct errors in previously recorded deeds
Gift property to others

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