TX STATETexas Court of Appeals, 4th District (San Antonio)
2003

San Antonio Credit Union v. O'CONNOR

115 S.W.3d 82Texas Court of Appeals, 4th District (San Antonio) • Decided 2003Modified
RetentionChange OrderCited 63 times

HOLDING

A construction dispute arose between a credit union, homeowners, and a construction company over a home building contract. The court ruled that there was not enough evidence to prove the credit union conspired with the homeowners to harm the contractor. However, the court upheld findings that the homeowners defamed and maliciously prosecuted the contractor. This case shows that courts carefully examine whether multiple parties actually worked together to cause harm, and won't assume conspiracy without solid proof.

KEY FINDINGS

Retention

Don't assume joint liability just because multiple parties are involved in a dispute—courts require clear evidence of actual conspiracy or agreement to harm you

Change Order

Defamation and malicious prosecution claims can succeed independently even when conspiracy claims fail, so protect your reputation and avoid false accusations

FULL COURT OPINION