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The Best Lawyers in America® 2027 Recognizes 88 Crowe Dunlevy Attorneys; 11 Honored as Lawyer of the Year
Aug 20, 2026|
6 minute read
How do I help energy companies resolve complex legal disputes?
While I am always prepared to take a case to trial, more than four decades of litigation experience have taught me that the best outcome often comes from finding a way to resolve a dispute early—whether through settlement or dismissal on motion. I look for solutions that protect my clients’ business interests and, where it makes sense, preserve ongoing commercial relationships.
On the side of oil and gas companies in royalty disputes, class actions and commercial litigation
Much of John’s practice involves representing major oil companies and independent producers in oil and gas litigation, particularly multi-state class actions involving royalty underpayment and late royalty payment claims. He also handles commercial disputes involving property ownership interests, gas purchase and processing agreements, mineral conveyances, construction and operating agreements, gross production and petroleum excise taxes, environmental damage from oil and gas operations and the interpretation of oil and gas leases and other industry contracts.
Representing energy companies in disputes involving hydraulic fracturing and horizontal drilling
Advances in horizontal drilling and hydraulic fracturing have transformed oil and gas production while creating new types of disputes and leading to increased litigation. John regularly represents clients in cases involving the effects of hydraulic fracturing associated with horizontal drilling on nearby oil wells and competing production interests. His experience spans both longstanding oil and gas disputes and the legal questions created by modern extraction technologies.
Helping energy and mining companies resolve water rights and environmental disputes
John has significant experience helping companies in disputes involving water rights, environmental compliance and natural resources regulation. He has handled litigation and administrative proceedings before the Oklahoma Water Resources Board, the Oklahoma Department of Environmental Quality and the Oklahoma Department of Mines involving groundwater and surface water rights, pollution remediation, mining permits and compliance with state regulatory requirements.