If you participate in energy production in Texas, you know that a good relationship between your company, government organizations and private residents may provide benefits for all parties involved. However, because the oil and gas industry makes up such a large portion of the state’s economy, there are several areas in which disputes may occur. At Alvarez Stauffer Bremer PLLC, we have years of experience in both arbitration and litigation of energy claims and disputes. Effective extraction of oil and gas likely requires your company to cooperate with landowners, contractors and the Railroad Commission of Texas, which regulates the state’s oil and gas production. Some of the most common disputes you may see relate to oil and gas leasing terms, requirements and royalties. While the RRC provides answers to frequent questions relating to oil and gas royalties, it does not have any authority to affect royalty agreements. Usually, you must settle these matters through arbitration and/or litigation. You may also find arbitration helpful in resolving other energy-industry conflicts. If you want to explore new areas for potential production or need to build additional pipelines, arbitration may help solve disputes privately without requiring a litigation case that becomes part of the public record. Arbitration allows you to present evidence and question witnesses in an official capacity, but the process is often more streamlined than a traditional trial. This alternative to litigation may help your company to proactively resolve disputes without filing a lawsuit. Oil and gas production is a complex field that involves many physical and legal aspects. Going through the arbitration process may allow you to settle energy-industry disputes quickly. More information about this topic is available on our web page.
