Dear ABBA Members,

Earlier this year, the American Brahman Breeders Association (ABBA) faced two separate lawsuits initiated by individuals, including a current members of the Board of Directors. These legal actions have imposed a significant financial burden on the Association, diverting funds away from essential programs and services that benefit all members.

One of these cases proceeded to District Court, while the other was resolved outside of court. We are pleased to report that both matters have now been resolved in ABBA’s favor — a positive outcome that underscores the importance of protecting the integrity of our association moving forward.

Cause No. 25-000869-CV-85

Michael England; Josefina Lecuna Muskus; Michael West; Terry Novak; O.W. Schneider; and John Carey Clay vs. American Brahman Breeders Association

Cause No. 25-000869-CV-85

vs.

American Brahman Breeders Association.

Filed in Brazos County District Court, this case spanned a 167-page petition. The Plaintiffs sought actions that would have significantly harmed ABBA, including:

• Prohibiting ABBA officers and Executive Committee members from acting on behalf of the Association.
• Freezing ABBA’s herdbook pending investigation.
• Requiring changes to officer elections.
• Payment of attorney’s fees and costs.

ABBA’s legal counsel, Frank Carroll, worked diligently to address and respond to these unsubstantiated allegations. After an intensive 8-hour court hearing involving more than half a dozen witnesses, the court ruled in favor of ABBA — a decision that legally affirms the Plaintiffs failed to demonstrate a likelihood of success on the merits or irreparable harm.

Defending this lawsuit cost the Association over $75,000 in legal fees, representing member dollars.

👉 To read the entire legal summary of this suit, please CLICK HERE.

Cause No. 38643

Brad Hinze/Hinze Cattle vs. American Brahman Breeders Association

Cause No. 38643

Brad Hinze/Hinze Cattle

vs.

American Brahman Breeders Association.

ABBA was sued by Brad Hinze. Although this matter did not proceed to trial or court, it nonetheless required a costly defense of over $17,000.00. Our legal team dedicated approximately 30 hours — the equivalent of four full workdays for two people — to stop the injunction from moving forward and to file the motion to transfer the case to Brazos County. Because this was filed as an emergency motion, our counsel had to drop everything and respond immediately. Once again, the outcome reinforced that the Association acted appropriately and within its authority.

Why This Matters for ABBA’s Future

While both cases ended positively, they demanded significant time, attention, and financial resources to defend. These challenges highlight the need for constitutional protections to safeguard ABBA against future legal actions that could distract from our mission and impose unnecessary burdens on our members.

That is why the proposed constitutional updates include clear provisions addressing lawsuits brought against the Association. You can view the full proposed language regarding lawsuits HERE. These changes are designed to:

• Strengthen ABBA’s foundation,
• Ensure fair governance, and
• Protect the resources entrusted to us by you — the membership.

We encourage you to read the information carefully, ask questions, and understand that this decision was made to protect the Association’s future. We remain confident in ABBA’s direction and deeply grateful for your continued support.