Dallas, Texas, November 23, 2025
The rivalry between Lockhart Smokehouse and Crossbuck BBQ concludes after a two-year legal battle over intellectual property and business interference allegations. Both parties faced significant legal expenses, yet they expressed a desire to move forward. The case highlights the complexities of the competitive Texas barbecue industry.
Lockhart Smokehouse and Crossbuck BBQ Settle Dispute
A local barbecue rivalry reaches a resolution after two years of legal battles.
Dallas, Texas – After a protracted two-year legal battle, the owners of Lockhart Smokehouse and Crossbuck BBQ have reached a resolution, bringing an end to their disputes over intellectual property, non-compete agreements, and allegations of business interference. The civil court jury’s decision resulted in both parties claiming partial victories, with each side bearing significant legal expenses.
The conflict began in 2020 when Tim McLaughlin, the pitmaster and co-owner of Lockhart Smokehouse, was dismissed by majority owners Jeff and Jill Bergus. McLaughlin had raised concerns about the restaurant’s financial management and the withholding of dividends from investors. In 2022, McLaughlin and his family opened Crossbuck BBQ in Farmers Branch, a move that led to multiple lawsuits filed by the Berguses in 2023. These lawsuits alleged breaches of intellectual property rights, violations of non-compete clauses, defamation, civil assault, and a conspiracy to harm Lockhart Smokehouse’s business interests. Each lawsuit sought damages ranging from $250,000 to $1 million.
In response, McLaughlin countersued the Berguses, alleging fraud and breach of contract. However, these counterclaims were dismissed by the judge due to insufficient evidence. Ultimately, the Collin County jury ruled that McLaughlin had not violated a contract by failing to invest in Lockhart Smokehouse’s Plano location but did not have an ongoing stake in the Arlington location at Texas Live!. The jury also determined that the Berguses did not deceitfully transfer ownership of Lockhart’s intellectual property to themselves.
Both parties have expressed a desire to move forward from the legal disputes, though they face financial burdens due to the substantial legal costs incurred during the proceedings. McLaughlin noted the financial strain, stating that no restaurant worker has $200,000 readily available in case of termination.
This legal saga highlights the complexities and challenges inherent in the competitive restaurant industry, particularly in the vibrant and competitive Texas barbecue scene.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What were the main allegations in the lawsuits between Lockhart Smokehouse and Crossbuck BBQ?
The lawsuits involved allegations of intellectual property disputes, violations of non-compete agreements, defamation, civil assault, and a conspiracy to harm Lockhart Smokehouse’s business interests.
What was the outcome of the legal battle?
The civil court jury’s decision resulted in both parties claiming partial victories, with each side bearing significant legal expenses.
What led to the opening of Crossbuck BBQ?
Tim McLaughlin, the former pitmaster and co-owner of Lockhart Smokehouse, opened Crossbuck BBQ in 2022 after being dismissed by the majority owners of Lockhart Smokehouse in 2020.
What were the financial implications of the legal proceedings?
Both parties faced substantial legal costs, with McLaughlin noting that no restaurant worker has $200,000 readily available in case of termination.
What does this legal saga reveal about the restaurant industry?
This legal saga highlights the complexities and challenges inherent in the competitive restaurant industry, particularly in the vibrant and competitive Texas barbecue scene.
Key Features of the Legal Dispute Between Lockhart Smokehouse and Crossbuck BBQ
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Parties Involved | Lockhart Smokehouse and Crossbuck BBQ |
| Nature of Allegations | Intellectual property disputes, non-compete violations, defamation, civil assault, conspiracy to harm business interests |
| Legal Proceedings | Multiple lawsuits filed by Lockhart Smokehouse; countersuit by McLaughlin |
| Outcome | Civil court jury’s decision with both parties claiming partial victories |
| Financial Impact | Significant legal expenses for both parties; McLaughlin highlighted the financial strain on restaurant workers |
| Industry Implications | Highlights complexities and challenges in the competitive Texas barbecue scene |
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Author: STAFF HERE DALLAS WRITER
The DALLAS STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREDallas.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Dallas, Dallas County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the State Fair of Texas, Deep Ellum Arts Festival, and Dallas International Film Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Dallas Regional Chamber and United Way of Metropolitan Dallas, plus leading businesses in telecommunications, aviation, and semiconductors that power the local economy such as AT&T, Southwest Airlines, and Texas Instruments. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAustinTX.com, HERECollegeStation.com, HEREHouston.com, and HERESanAntonio.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Texas's dynamic landscape.
