Accurate oil and gas title opinions help evaluate ownership, drilling rights, and interests in production. Dawson Springman prepares oil and gas title opinions for operators and energy companies across Texas and New Mexico.
The purpose and scope of the examination should match the decision at hand. Our attorneys regularly prepare:
- Drilling title opinions: Address ownership and leasehold interests relevant to proposed drilling, with requirements to resolve identified title issues.
- Division order title opinions: Address interests relevant to allocating production proceeds. A title opinion is distinct from the division order used to direct payment.
- Leasehold title opinions: Examine the interests and instruments affecting the leasehold covered by the assignment.
- Acquisition title opinions: Address the interests being acquired within an agreed scope of review.
An opinion depends on the records examined and its stated scope. Deeds, leases, assignments, probate records, and prior opinions may reveal questions requiring further information or corrective instruments. The Texas Title Examination Standards provide guidance on evaluating land titles; the applicable law and records must be considered for each property.
Title issues can also affect payment. For Texas production, Natural Resources Code § 91.402 addresses payment timing and specified grounds for withholding proceeds, including certain unresolved title requirements. Texas rules should not be assumed to apply to New Mexico interests.
For an initial conversation, identify the property’s county and state, the proposed transaction or operation, relevant deadlines, and the records already available. Confirm the scope and document needs with counsel before sending sensitive materials. Learn about our transaction practice, meet our attorneys, or contact the firm to discuss the matter.