What is a Division Order Title Opinion and Why is it Important?

Definition & Meaning

A division order title opinion is a formal document typically prepared by an attorney. It outlines the names of individuals or entities that hold ownership rights in a producing oil or gas well, along with their respective decimal ownership interests. This opinion serves as a verification of ownership, ensuring that all parties involved in the production of oil or gas are accurately represented in terms of their share of revenue derived from the sale of these resources.

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Real-world examples

Here are a couple of examples of abatement:

Example 1: An attorney prepares a division order title opinion for a new oil well in Texas. The opinion lists three owners: Alice with a 25 percent interest, Bob with a 50 percent interest, and Carol with a 25 percent interest.

Example 2: A gas company requests a division order title opinion to ensure all ownership interests are correctly documented before commencing production. The attorney verifies the ownership through public records and confirms the decimal shares for each owner. (hypothetical example)

State-by-state differences

State Key Differences
Texas Division orders are often required to be filed with the state for revenue distribution.
Oklahoma Specific forms must be used, and the state has unique regulations regarding ownership verification.
California Additional environmental regulations may affect the preparation of division orders.

This is not a complete list. State laws vary and users should consult local rules for specific guidance.

Comparison with related terms

Term Definition Key Differences
Division Order A document detailing ownership shares in production revenue. Focuses on revenue distribution rather than ownership verification.
Title Opinion A legal opinion regarding the ownership of property. More general and can apply to various types of property, not just oil and gas.

What to do if this term applies to you

If you are involved in oil and gas production and need a division order title opinion, consider the following steps:

  • Consult with an attorney who specializes in oil and gas law to prepare the opinion accurately.
  • Gather all necessary documentation, including leases and deeds, to verify ownership interests.
  • Explore US Legal Forms for templates that can help you draft the required documents.
  • If the situation is complex or involves disputes, seek professional legal assistance.

Quick facts

Attribute Details
Typical Fees Varies by attorney; generally ranges from $500 to $2,000.
Jurisdiction State-specific; varies by oil and gas regulations.
Possible Penalties Incorrect ownership representation can lead to legal disputes and financial penalties.

Key takeaways

Frequently asked questions

It clarifies ownership interests and ensures accurate revenue distribution for oil and gas production.