This question has been addressed in 1 Texas court opinion:
COA04 — February 18, 2026
In Rangel v. Rangel, David Rangel, Jr. appealed a ruling from the 224th Judicial District Court but later filed a motion to voluntarily dismiss the appeal, asserting that the legal dispute had become moot. The Fourth Court of Appeals analyzed the request under Texas Rule of Appellate Procedure 42.1(a)(1), which permits dismissal upon an appellant's motion provided it does not prejudice the appellee's right to seek their own relief. Because the appellee, Charlene Rangel, did not oppose the motion or assert any independent claims, the court granted the request and dismissed the appeal.
Litigation Takeaway
“A voluntary dismissal is a strategic exit ramp to end litigation costs following a settlement or change in circumstances, but appellees must act quickly to file a response if they have a pending cross-appeal they wish to preserve.”