W.Va. Landowners Say Leases Require Express Authorization for Assignment

WHEELING, W.Va. - Energy company defendants have asked a federal judge to dismiss a declaratory judgment action filed by West Virginia landowners who maintain that their mineral rights they leased to defendants are not assignable without express authorization by the lessors. Stricklin, et al. v. Fortuna Energy Inc., et al., No. 5:12-cv-00008-FPS (N.D. W.Va.).

Chesapeake Appalachia LLC and other defendants filed their motion in the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of West Virginia Jan. 24, asserting that the declaration sought by plaintiffs violates the plain language of the leases and controlling law.

Plaintiffs Arthur C. Stricklin and other …