Fayetteville Shale Lawsuit | 2025 Latest Updates

If you or a loved one experienced environmental damage, health hazards, or improper royalty payments related to the Fayetteville Shale gas extraction and production in Arkansas, you may be entitled to pursue compensation.

At Schmidt & Clark, LLP, we are dedicated to helping individuals who have suffered due to these issues. Our experienced legal team is here to guide you through the process and fight for the compensation you deserve.

Contact Schmidt & Clark, LLP today for a free, no-obligation consultation.

What Is the Fayetteville Shale Lawsuit?

The Fayetteville Shale Lawsuit is a case filed on allegations that Southwestern Energy Company (SEECO) was not paying royalties to royalty owners in the Fayetteville shale area.

Latest Fayetteville Shale Lawsuit Updates

• 2023 – The Arkansas Oil and Gas Commission launched investigations after legal proceedings sparked concerns about the effects of oil and gas production in the area. Two injection wells were shut down pending further examination.
• May 2017 – A preliminary settlement of $45 million was reached between Conway County resident Eldridge Snow and other royalty owners and SEECO, subject to final approval in Conway County Circuit Court.
• 2011 – A class action lawsuit was filed against BHP Billiton Petroleum entities, Chesapeake Operating Inc., and Clarita Operating LLC alleging their operations had caused thousands of earthquakes in central Arkansas.

Defendants and Allegations

The class action lawsuit filed against BHP Billiton Petroleum entities, Chesapeake Operating Inc. and Clarita Operating LLC, alleged these companies operate specific injection wells near Greenbrier and Guy, AR, responsible for causing thousands of earthquakes in central Arkansas.

The allegations have led to damages suffered by residents in Faulkner County and surrounding counties, including Conway, Van Buren, Cleburne, Perry, and White.

Side Effects of Fayetteville Shale Gas Extraction and Production

Research strongly suggests potential environmental public health risks associated with the Fayetteville Shale gas development. Common examples of these health risks include air pollution, increased risk of morbidity and mortality, and water contamination [1].

Another study strongly suggests that the Fayetteville Shale Gas exploration may have caused habitat loss, loss of organisms, and fragmentation because of hydraulic fracturing and horizontal drilling within the area [2].

Do You Qualify for a Fayetteville Shale Lawsuit?

You may qualify for a Fayetteville Shale lawsuit if:

• You are a property owner in the affected areas including Faulkner County, Conway, Van Buren, Cleburne, Perry, or White counties.
• You have experienced property damage due to seismic activity linked to gas extraction.
• You’ve suffered health impacts related to air or water contamination.
• You are a royalty owner who received improper payment for gas extraction on your property.
• You can provide documentation of damages or financial losses related to the Fayetteville Shale activities.

Evidence Required for a Fayetteville Shale Lawsuit

• Property records establishing ownership in affected areas
• Documentation of property damage or diminished property value
• Medical records showing health issues potentially linked to gas extraction activities
• Records of royalty payments showing discrepancies or improper deductions
• Evidence of increased seismic activity correlated with nearby extraction operations

Damages You Can Recover

• Property damage repair costs
• Medical expenses for health issues related to contamination
• Mental distress compensation
• Earthquake insurance-related losses
• Loss of fair market value of real estate
• Unpaid or underpaid royalties plus interest
• Punitive damages against negligent companies

What Are the Potential Settlements?

The potential settlements include $45 million, which was reached between Conway County resident Eldridge Snow and other royalty owners and SEECO, subject to final approval in Conway County Circuit Court.

Other settlements to be paid by SEECO include a sum of $30 million, lower deductions from future royalty payments at an estimated value of $15 million to property owners, and a sum of up to $150,000 for a settlement administrator.

If finally approved, these potential settlements will allow for immediate recovery and promote judicial efficiency, benefiting both parties.

Statute of Limitations for Fayetteville Shale Lawsuits

In Arkansas, the statute of limitations for filing a lawsuit related to property damage is typically three years from the date of discovery. For personal injury claims, the statute is also three years. However, for cases involving continuous damage or ongoing issues, the timeline may be extended. It’s critical to consult with an attorney promptly to ensure your claim is filed within the allowable timeframe.

Related Articles:

• Haynesville Shale Drilling Accident
• Appalachian Basin Oil Rig Accident Litigation
• Eagle Ford Shale Lawsuit Overview

See all related personal injury and accident lawsuits our lawyers have taken on.

FAQs

1. What are the potential damages that can be claimed in a Fayetteville Shale lawsuit?

Potential damages in a Fayetteville Shale lawsuit include property damage, health impacts, lost property value, punitive damages, and legal costs. Compensation varies based on individual case specifics and evidence.

2. How can residents determine if they have a valid claim against Fayetteville Shale operations?

Residents can determine validity by consulting an attorney, reviewing potential harm or damages, gathering evidence of impact, and assessing compliance with environmental regulations or lease agreements related to shale operations.

3. Are there any specific regulations or laws affecting Fayetteville Shale lawsuits?

Yes, Fayetteville Shale lawsuits are affected by federal and state regulations on environmental protection, oil and gas drilling, property rights, and local ordinances governing shale extraction and its impact.

4. Who are the main defendants in the Fayetteville Shale lawsuits?

The main defendants include Southwestern Energy Company (SEECO), BHP Billiton Petroleum entities, Chesapeake Operating Inc., and Clarita Operating LLC. These companies have been alleged to have caused environmental damage and improper royalty payments.

5. What role has the Arkansas Oil and Gas Commission played in these cases?

The Arkansas Oil and Gas Commission has conducted investigations into the increased seismic activity in central Arkansas and has ordered the closure of two injection wells as part of their examination of potential connections to earthquakes.

Related Article: Oil Field Accident and Injury Lawsuit Update

“How significant it is in the history of shale exploration: Prior to the Fayetteville Shale, only the Barnett was commercially producing. The Fayetteville Shale proved the Barnett wasn’t a fluke because it proved another shale was productive.”
– George Sheffer, Southwestern Energy’s Vice President of Operations for the Fayetteville Shale

Get a Free Fayetteville Shale Lawsuit Evaluation With Our Lawyers

Time is limited to pursue legal action related to the Fayetteville Shale operations. Arkansas law typically allows only three years from the date of injury or discovery of damage to file a claim. Don’t delay in seeking the compensation you deserve for property damage, health issues, or unpaid royalties.

At Schmidt & Clark, LLP, we offer:

• Free, confidential consultations to evaluate your potential claim.
• No upfront costs or fees for our legal services.
• Payment only if we win your case and secure compensation for you.

References

1. https://misuse.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/error/abuse.shtml
2. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/25566834/