EQT Faces Class Action for Nonpayment of Royalties

Two Pennsylvania residents have filed a lawsuit against energy company EQT, the nation’s largest natural gas producer. The initial two members of the class hope that others will join the action.According to the lawsuit, EQT failed to make required royalty payments to the residents and potentially hundreds or thousands of other people. The lawsuit clams this is in violation of Pennsylvania’s Minimum Royalty Act, which guarantees payment to all rights owners of at least 12.5% of the value of the gas they produce.

The lawsuit was filed by Richard A. Ross, a resident of Cumberland County and Fieldstone Ventures, LLC, also known as Ian Dupre, a licensed real estate professional in Pittsburgh. According to the suit, EQT and its subsidiaries extracted and produced natural gas from property owned by the plaintiffs without providing them with any compensation.

The suit claims Ross and Fieldstone ventures own the mineral rights in two separate locations in Pennsylvania. Ross is listed as a co-tenant of 362 acres in Aleppo Township, Green County. Fieldstone is listed as a co-tenant of 55 acres in Green County. According to the lawsuit, neither Ross, nor Fieldstone were identified by EQT as owners, nor were they paid their fair share.The lawsuit also claims that Ross and Fieldstone are not alone and that there are many people who also deserve compensation.

Does Mineral Right law Affect You?

The mineral rights of a parcel of land include all organic and inorganic substances forming a part of the soil. When an owner has mineral rights, they possess the ability to exploit, mine, and/or produce any or all of the minerals that ae located below the surface of the property.

It’s possible for someone to own the right to mine the minerals of a land without owning the land.

If the mineral rights of a property you own are in question or you own the mineral right of land that you do not own, it’s important to work with an attorney who understands mineral rights in your area.

Oil, gas, and power companies have become increasingly interested in natural resources. For this reason, you must protect your rights as a landowner. An experienced mineral rights lawyer understands the uncertainty you face and can help you defend your rights against energy companies and those trying to infringe on your mineral rights.

For more information or to discuss your situation regarding mineral rights, contact Heavens Law at 484-467-8254. All phone consultations are free and confidential, with no obligation beyond that.