Houston Energy Law Contracts: Legal Guidance for Texas’s Most Powerful Industry

Houston is more than just the Energy Capital of the World—it’s the legal heartbeat of the U.S. energy sector. From oil and gas to renewables and utilities, nearly every major energy deal or dispute has legal fingerprints on it. That’s where we come in.

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At Adam Bernards Attorneys, our team specializes in Energy Law contracts and regulatory counsel for individuals, corporations, landowners, and startups operating in Houston and across Texas.

Whether you’re negotiating an oil lease, reviewing a joint venture agreement, or launching a solar farm, your energy project deserves airtight legal protection.

What Is Energy Law and Why Does It Matter in Houston?

Energy Law encompasses the contracts, regulations, and disputes that govern how energy is produced, distributed, traded, and used. It affects:

  • Oil & gas operators 
  • Midstream transportation companies 
  • Renewable energy developers 
  • Utility companies 
  • Landowners leasing mineral rights 
  • Investors in energy tech 

In Houston, Energy Law isn’t just a niche—it’s core to doing business.

Our Energy Contract Services in Houston

We offer full-service legal support across all types of energy-related contracts, including:

🛢️ Oil & Gas Leases

We represent both landowners and operators to draft, review, and negotiate oil, gas, and mineral leases that are compliant with Texas law and reflect fair market standards.

⚖️ Joint Operating Agreements (JOAs)

We draft and interpret JOAs, unitization agreements, and area of mutual interest (AMI) clauses to ensure your drilling partnerships are clear and enforceable.

⚡ Power Purchase Agreements (PPAs)

Our attorneys review and negotiate PPAs for renewable developers, including wind and solar, helping ensure financial certainty and legal risk management.

📄 Energy Service Contracts

Whether you’re a subcontractor or service provider in oilfield operations or renewables, we’ll ensure your MSA, EPC, or service contract protects your scope, payment, and liability terms.

🧾 Regulatory Compliance

We provide compliance support on both state (Railroad Commission of Texas) and federal (FERC, EPA) levels, including environmental assessments and permitting reviews.

Why Energy Contracts Need Legal Oversight

Many contracts in the energy sector involve high stakes and complex obligations. A single poorly drafted indemnity clause or unclear royalty split could result in six- or seven-figure disputes.

Here’s why legal review isn’t optional:

  • Texas oil & gas law evolves constantly (case law + legislative updates) 
  • Regulatory obligations vary by location and energy type 
  • Many disputes arise from ambiguity, not just breach 
  • Insurance, environmental risks, and taxes are often overlooked in DIY contracts 

Recent Industry Trend (August 2025): Greater Scrutiny of Royalty Deductions

A trending issue in Houston energy law right now is the rise of disputes over royalty deductions, particularly regarding post-production costs.

In July 2025, a Texas appellate court decision reignited debate over what counts as a “reasonable deduction” for transportation and processing. This has landowners, producers, and investors seeking clearer contract language and tighter definitions in royalty clauses.

If your lease or division order hasn’t been reviewed in years, now’s the time.

See the Texas Judicial Branch website for recent rulings

Who We Help

We work with:

  • Energy startups developing tech or renewables in the Houston innovation corridor 
  • Independent oil & gas producers needing contract negotiation or dispute resolution 
  • Landowners & mineral rights holders seeking protection and fair royalties 
  • Investors & developers structuring complex joint ventures 
  • Service companies & EPC firms navigating contract compliance and indemnity 

U.S. Department of Energy: Energy Contracts Overview

Why Choose Adam Bernards Attorneys?

  • Deep knowledge of Texas energy law and Houston industry standards 
  • Responsive service for time-sensitive contracts and negotiations 
  • Bespoke legal solutions for upstream, midstream, and renewable clients 
  • Experience representing both landowners and operators, giving us unique perspective 

Whether you need a single contract review or end-to-end legal counsel for your energy operations, we’re ready to help.

FAQs

Do I need an attorney to review my energy contract?
Yes. Most energy contracts include complex terms around royalties, liability, and jurisdiction that can easily be misinterpreted or exploited without legal guidance.

Can you help if I already signed a bad contract?
Yes. While we prefer to be involved early, we handle contract disputes, re-negotiations, and litigation support if needed.

Do you only serve Houston?
We’re based in Houston but serve clients throughout Texas and represent out-of-state investors doing business in the state.

Let’s Power Your Deal—Safely

If you’re working in energy in Texas, your legal contracts are just as important as your equipment and production strategy. Let’s make sure your deals are protected, your risks are managed, and your revenue is secure.

📞 Call Adam Bernards Attorneys at  +1 346 3556 111
📧 Email us at info@adambernards.com
Or visit our office in Houston for a confidential consultation.