Lewis v. Indian Springs Land Corp.
Thomas E. Lewis appeals the denial of his special appearance, arguing a lack of personal jurisdiction in Texas. Appellees (Indian Springs Investment Partners, Ltd., Beltway Development Corporation, Indian Springs Joint Venture, and Indian Springs Land Corporation) sued Lewis, a Florida resident, regarding his distribution of funds from Indian Springs Land Corporation. The appellees allege claims including breach of contract, breach of fiduciary duty, conversion, fraud, misappropriation of funds, and statutory theft. The dispute stems from a series of business transactions spanning several years concerning the acquisition and development of property in California, where Lewis held various interests in Texas-based entities and served as president of ISLC. The court concluded that Lewis is subject to specific jurisdiction in Texas due to his extensive, purposeful contacts with the state, including multiple visits, negotiations, contractual relationships governed by Texas law, and direct involvement with Texas-based entities. The court also found that exercising jurisdiction comports with traditional notions of fair play and substantial justice. Therefore, the trial court's order denying Lewis's special appearance is affirmed, and the case is remanded for trial on the merits.