Robert J Burnett

February 25, 2014 | The Legal Intelligencer

As the debate in Harrisburg heats up this winter regarding the practice of deducting post-production costs from oil and gas royalties, the Pennsylvania Superior Court has made clear that the Guaranteed Minimum Royalty Act, or GMRA, remains a viable component of Pennsylvania oil and gas law.

By Robert J. Burnett

5 minute read

December 31, 2013 | The Legal Intelligencer

In a typical oil and gas lease, there are three primary sources of compensation to the landowner: the production royalty, the delay rental and the shut-in royalty.

By Robert J. Burnett

6 minute read

August 13, 2013 | The Legal Intelligencer

On July 9, Governor Tom Corbett signed SB 259 into law. Make no mistake, this bill is controversial and will have a dramatic effect on thousands of existing oil and gas leases throughout Pennsylvania.

By Robert J. Burnett

9 minute read

June 18, 2013 | The Legal Intelligencer

The modern oil and gas lease is a sophisticated and complex legal instrument that has evolved over the last several decades. This evolution, however, has generally occurred within the "vertical well" context. Recent technological advances in horizontal drilling and hydraulic fracturing have resulted in unprecedented leasing activity throughout Pennsylvania.

By Robert J. Burnett

9 minute read

October 15, 2013 | The Legal Intelligencer

Many landowners across Pennsylvania are experiencing sticker shock upon opening their first royalty statement. They have waited months, often years, to receive their first royalty.

By Robert J. Burnett

8 minute read