Back in 2023, Christopher Chapaneri filed a motion to compel arbitration, seeking to enforce an arbitration clause a parent signed on behalf of her minor as a condition precedent to her minor being permitted to enter a trampoline and adventure park and engage in the attractions therein. The trial court denied the motion and we initiated an appeal arguing that, because the minor directly benefited from the agreement, and because the parent had authority to bind the minor under the Texas Family Code, that the claims should be compelled to arbitration.
In February of 2024, the Court of Appeals agreed, reversed and entered judgment compelling the claims to arbitration, stating that the parent could bind the minor to arbitration agreements under the Texas Family Code and under the doctrine of direct benefits estoppel. The published opinion is Pearland Urban Air, LLC v. Cerna, 693 S.W.3d 711 (Tex. App.—Houston [14th Dist.] 2024), aff’d sub nom. Cerna as Next Friend of R.W. v. Pearland Urban Air, LLC, No. 24-0273, 2025 WL 1478505 (Tex. May 23, 2025).
Cerna petitioned the Texas Supreme Court, which granted review. After full briefing, amicus briefs being filed by major companies, etc. – on Friday, May 23, 2025 the Texas Supreme Court affirmed the Court of Appeals opinion and entered judgment directing the trial court to compel arbitration.
Humble brag – when Texas Supreme Court sides with you and your client, it is a pretty awesome feeling!
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Christopher Chapaneri a distinguished Lydecker attorney with extensive expertise in civil litigation, construction defect, premises liability, amusement park litigation, commercial motor vehicle/trucking, employment law, and environmental litigation—including mold exposure and vegetation management/overspray matters. Chapaneri also has a robust appellate practice, having successfully handled cases before the Texas Supreme Court and the Fifth Circuit Court of Appeals.
In addition, Chapaneri brings substantial experience in handling high exposure and high-risk cases, further strengthening Lydecker’s ability to serve clients across multiple industries in Texas and beyond. Chapaneri also provides services in the State of Oklahoma.
