Mineral Deeds: Assignment-Sublease Distinction; Retroactivity of Louisiana Mineral Code

摘要

Plaintiff landowner institutes suit against corporations and an individual who have at various times conducted oil and gas exploration and production operations on plaintiff's property. The claims are for damages for negligence, for breach of contract, for restoration under the Louisiana Mineral Code, for exemplary damages, for trespass, and for maritime tort. Dorew Energy seeks general and punitive damages as well as the costs associated with cleaning up and restoring the land. Defendants file exceptions of prematurity, alleging that since the lease is still in effect, any action against the defendants for their past or current involvement in the lease is premature.