Austin represents Texas operators and non-operators in complex issues and disputes. He seeks practical solutions to avoid litigation, but adopts aggressive courtroom strategies when necessary.
This case emphasizes the critical role expert testimony can play in oil and gas litigation. Securing the right testimony is just one aspect of the challenge; it is also critical to plan ahead to ensure the evidence is properly admissible.
A major Texas Supreme Court decision unpacks common but thorny issues in oil and gas agreements - from measuring time periods to interpreting reassignment clauses and back-in rights - showing how subtle drafting choices can have massive consequences.
A winning strategy in an assignment interpretation case often involves finding a persuasive harmonization between the form of assignment and the exhibit containing property descriptions.
Exculpatory provisions are important considerations in JOAs. They can provide protection from certain claims and liabilities as an inducement to serve as the operator.
In this case, the Texas Supreme Court reviewed a “bespoke” oil and gas lease, and held that its “unique,” “unusual,” and “broad lease language” provided for a “proceeds plus” royalty base.
How do Texas Courts measure contractual time periods? The answer can have a big impact on compliance and potential damages. In this Texas oil and gas case law update, we discuss the Texas Supreme Court's recent decision in Apache v. Apollo
