Mineral Law
And Litigation

Minerals From Beginning To End

Whether you are contemplating entering the oil and gas or coal business, or trying to walk away, we can help you with all aspects of the effort.

First Steps

If you are just getting started in the oil and gas business, we can help you with leasing issues, regulatory issues associated with becoming an operator of oil and gas wells, as well as real estate and title work. We are well-versed in complex areas, including how to address unknown or missing mineral owners.

Acquisitions

If you are acquiring mineral properties, our attorneys have experience in all phases of acquisition of mineral properties, from letters of intent and purchase and sale agreements, to assisting with due diligence, including title investigations and curative work, regulatory evaluation and assistance, and document preparation and closings. Our firm has coordinated several multi-million dollar acquisitions and sales of mineral properties.

Operations

Our attorneys can assist you with many aspects of oil and gas operations. Issues can arise with respect to permitting and related administrative issues. We can guide you through the administrative hearing processes and help to ensure your project is on the proper regulatory footing.

Landowner disputes are very common, especially when severed minerals are involved. Our attorneys have experience in handling landowner issues in the preliminary permitting phase as well as negotiating and litigating mineral rights and property damage claims.

We are also experienced in environmental aspects of mineral development, including initial compliance assistance with the cornucopia of different environmental laws, including those pertaining to air, water and waste, as well as endangered species. Our representation has included assisting operators subject to civil and administrative enforcement for alleged violations

Mineral Litigation

Our firm has a long history of involvement in litigation relating to mineral rights and related issues. In 2006, the firm successfully served as lead counsel in the first Kentucky decision involving ownership of Coalbed Methane. This firm also has extensive experience in litigation involving mineral rights, surface owner disputes, lease termination, coal supply contracts, and many other mineral issues.

Wrapping Things Up

When the time comes to divest mineral assets, Sullivan Mountjoy, PSC can guide you through that process as well. Whether the plan is to sell leases, or to plug and abandon existing production, firm attorneys will provide assistance regarding the legal and regulatory steps that are necessary to minimize liability with respect to past operations.