My husband just passed away two weeks ago and I do not know how to transfer over his mineral rights and oil & gas lease. I just received the first check in the mail from Devon Energy yesterday. Everything is very overwhelming to me and I don't know how to handle this. Any help or advice would be greatly appreciated. Thank you so much.
Did you husband leave a will, and if so, is it being probated?
Are the minerals located in the same state where you live, and where your husband passed away?
Were you a joint tenant on the minerals with your husband? Did you sign the oil lease with him?
I'm sorry for your loss. Take care of yourself. There will be plenty of time to deal with minerals after you have grieved. Devon is a good, strong company and will help you when the time is right for you. Now is not the time to rush into anything. Contact your family attorney if you like. You have far more important things to spend your time on now. The minerals aren't going anywhere.
Best Wishes,
Gary L Hutchinson
Minerals Mangement.
I'm sorry for your loss. Agreed! There's no need to rush.
So, whenever you have the emotional energy, contact an attorney. If your husband had a Will and he owned the land the minerals are under, and everything is in Texas or one of the states that honor a Muniment of Title, locate an attorney who is familiar with probating a Will by way of Muniment of Title. It's fast and should be minimal in cost.
This is a legal document that shows evidence of ownership of an asset, ex., Deeds, Wills, Titles, or court judgments. Heirs to an estate may file this type of action for the probate of the Will by way of Muniment of Title. In this regard, the petitioner is asking the court to recognize them as the beneficiary of the properties in the estate and are requesting the property titles to be transferred to them.
As for notifying Devon, call their Land Dept. and tell them the situation. No rush! Just don't forget to deposit their checks.
Good luck,
Pat.
Thanks Pat and Gary for great input here...