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Our Anniversary Story

“For 50 years, Linebarger has helped governments recover the revenue that keeps communities strong. As we look ahead, our commitment to innovation, service, and people remains the foundation of everything we do.”

— Clif Douglass, Management Committee Chair


Our Story and Mission

50 Years Shaped by People, Progress, and Purpose

Our story began in 1976 with a simple but powerful idea: to help governments serve their communities by delivering reliable, effective revenue recovery. In 1998, the merger of Texas’ two largest collection law firms transformed that vision into a national platform—one strengthened through strategic acquisitions, joint ventures, and the creation of specialized subsidiaries in technology, analytics, and real estate title management.

Today, we remain grounded in the same principles that shaped our beginning.

  • Proven Results
  • Innovation
  • Tailored Service
  • A Team You Can Count On
  • Community Engagement

As we celebrate 50 years, we remain committed to the values that built this firm—and to the work ahead.


lasting partnerships

Steady Growth

From our first client in 1976 to 2,600 today, our growth reflects the service and dedication we provide to the communities that we are proud to serve nationwide.


Strength in numbers

Our Reach & Impact

What began in one Texas office has grown into a nationwide network built on results, relationships, and trust.

people icon
Attorneys Nationwide
115
Offices Nationwide
49
Annual Revenue Collected for Clients
$1B
Clients Retained for 10+ Years
60%

evolution & impact

Moments That Shaped Us

1976

Firm founded in Austin, Texas as a delinquent tax collection law firm

1979

Texas Legislature established Property Tax Code

1985

Installed first computerized tax office collection system, known today as Appraisal & Collection Technologies, LLC (ACT)

1991

Property Value Study Appeals and Audit services offered

1995

First office outside of Texas opened in Dublin, Ohio

1997

First federal contract with U.S. Treasury

1998

Linebarger merged with San Antonio-based Heard Goggan Blair & Williams Attorneys at Law

1998

First court fines and fees client

2004

First state tax collection client

2004

First toll collection client

2010

ACT purchased Truth-in-Taxation software to augment client services

2012

Homestead Exemption Analysis and Audit services offered

2021

School finance consultation services offered

2024

Launched text messaging and email outreach for account holder communications

2026

50 years of providing delinquent collections to public sector clients


Building what comes next

50 Years Forward

We’re proud of where we’ve been — and even more inspired by what’s ahead.

Every day, we help communities thrive by doing what we’ve always done best: serving with purpose, integrity, and heart.

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