Frequently Asked Questions

If you’ve received a lease offer, condemnation notice, agency letter, or anything involving your land, minerals, or utilities—and you’re unsure what it really means—that’s usually the right moment to call. These are issues people often encounter once in a lifetime, and mistakes can be expensive or permanent.

Today, my practice is focused on representing landowners, mineral owners, families, and advocacy groups. My prior experience working with companies and regulators helps me anticipate issues and protect my clients’ interests more effectively. I very rarely accept engagements from corporations, and when I do, I make certain that they are not in conflict with my current clients.

My practice is focused on land, minerals, energy, environmental, and utility matters. I’ve worked for energy companies, government agencies, utilities, and consumer groups, which gives me a practical understanding of how these matters actually work behind the scenes—not just how they’re supposed to work on paper.

Yes—and that’s one of the most common reasons people call. A review can identify payment issues, long-term control problems, surface-use concerns, or hidden provisions that may not be obvious at first glance.

Typically, my ability to help you on a transaction ends when you sign and return the documents. 

Yes. I regularly represent out-of-state owners and heirs who have land or mineral interests in Arkansas. Many clients never expected to deal with Arkansas property issues and need clear guidance on what to do next. I am frequently retained as in-state counsel by lawyers outside of Arkansas for mineral rights probates and estates.

Fees depend on the nature of the matter. Many leasing, surface damage and use, mineral right sales, and condemnation matters are handled on a contingency fee that is either a flat percentage or a percentage of the improved compensation. Some work is handled hourly, while other matters may be appropriate for flat-fee or limited-scope arrangements. I believe in discussing fees upfront so clients understand what to expect before work begins.

Because these matters often involve legal rights and long-term consequences, I don’t provide legal advice unless you have a signed engagement agreement with my firm. Typically, I will first have a phone conversation with you to allow me to understand the situation and determine whether I can help.

If you have documents such as a lease offer, notice letter, deed, or agency correspondence, it’s helpful to have those nearby. If not, a clear description of what you’ve received is enough to start the conversation.

If you want clear explanations, practical advice, and someone who understands both the legal and real-world side of these issues, we’re likely a good fit. If your matter involves land, minerals, energy, utilities, or environmental concerns, a brief phone call is the best way to find out.

Who My Practice Is Not For:

You’re shopping solely for the cheapest option.

Cost matters, and I believe in transparency about fees. But these issues often involve assets that last generations. My focus is on sound judgment and long-term outcomes, not cutting corners.

You Want immediate answers without providing information.

Good advice depends on understanding the facts. I’m always willing to listen, but meaningful guidance requires a clear picture of the situation.

You’re seeking aggressive litigation as a first step.

Many land, mineral, environmental, and utility matters are resolved more effectively through careful analysis and negotiation. Litigation is sometimes necessary, but it is rarely the starting point.

Your matter does not involve land, minerals, energy, utilities, or environmental issues.

My practice is intentionally focused. If your issue falls outside these areas, I may recommend another attorney who is better suited to help.

You’re looking for free legal advice by email or text.

These matters often involve significant legal rights and long-term consequences. I don’t provide legal advice without a proper conversation and review of the situation.

You want someone to “just sign off” on a deal without questions.

My role is to help clients understand what’s really happening and whether an arrangement is fair—not to rubber-stamp documents that may create problems later.