Harrison County, a paid-up oil and gas note was recorded with our aunt’s name (that was sold to her brother in the 90s). After our granddad died, she opted out of oil and gas; wanted upfront cash. Her name, which is on the lease recorded ironically, has never had it in her name legally ever. It was odd that this was filed completely blindsided as (we the heirs) should have been paid for many years of operations, so why post a lease in 2022? Owing in other areas owned in Harrison with payment and the oil companies had no problems finding us (meaning the heirs). It’s McNutt 424 Tract(s). Now the courthouse clerks are stating that we do not own, and had never owned, explaining going back to original docket of owners, and ironically there was a name the same; however, that is not whom we are connected to. This change had to occur after 2006, as our CPA calls every year to verify any changes in ownership and none til now. In 2006 we could not use the succession that was filed in two other states. Now they will accept them showing ownership. Still, this is getting nowhere. Yes, I do need a Landman or attorney; however, trust has not been the best of luck with Landman as of recently, and yes we can say this as we have been daughters and granddaughters of men that left us as Landman working their entire life, so keeping these makes them more important as we can’t get the time back at least we can keep them safe. What I’m asking is there an underlying reason a filing of a lease that has our deceased aunt as the owner, and does anyone know what oil company or possibly units names. There were some legal issues with unpaid taxes; however, we received a letter from an attorney clearing us for any unpaid taxes due. Thanks
It is possible to have a lease filed incorrectly if the the title work was not done properly. (or at all) Some landmen are not as careful as others and will file if names are similar or they are in a hurry. Once a well is drilled, the Division Order title opinion is the one that counts because the royalties are calculated using it. Usually done by a different attorney and they are quite particular about getting the information correctly calcuated going back the state patent documents.
You might consider hiring a local Abstract Company in that County to run a title chain for the property. Just because a County Clerk’s office says something doesn’t make it a fact or truth.
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