Whitley Penn Talks: A Crude Bit of Humor - From Disclaimed Heirs to Missing Money: Tales from the Title Trenches

Message us!Family folklore, questionable signatures, and courtroom surprises, this episode takes a fascinating look at how title defects, probate complications, and estate planning mistakes can expose mineral owners and operators to significant risks. In Part Two of our Crude Bit of Humor series, title attorney Mellisa Gardner of Ball Morse Lowe joins Buffie Campbell and Coby Nathanson to walk through real‑world scenarios where family dynamics, decades‑old documents, and unclear intent collide, often with complex and costly outcomes.Whether you work in oil & gas, manage mineral interests, or simply want to prevent avoidable legal challenges for your family, this conversation offers practical insight you won’t find in a textbook.What you will learn: How seemingly harmless "family stories" can escalate into serious legal problemsHow risk is evaluated when the title isn't perfectly clear Common estate planning missteps mineral owners makeIn oil and gas, the past has a way of resurfacing.Old deeds, missing heirs, and long-forgotten interests can come back to haunt a project, especially after a merger, acquisition, or divestiture.Ball Morse Lowe is a leader in oil, gas, and energy law, delivering trusted, thoughtful title opinions and curative solutions that bring clarity to complex ownership.We understand tight timelines and the need for certainty - moving your projects forward with speed and precision.Ball Morse Lowe. Excellence from the ground up.Learn more at ballmorselowe.com.Fill out this form to have new episodes sent right to your inbox! Follow Whitley Penn on LinkedIn, Instagram, Facebook, and X for more industry insights and thought leadership!