It seems like all landmen are getting a bad rap.I've had to hire landmen since 82 for oil and gas leases every since my Ol'man died and he did'nt tell us anything about O/G or our familys interest.Best money I've ever spent was on a CPL.... and their advice?...Hire a top lawyer.MY advice? hire a top lawyer.When James Mcconnell comes on this website(best advice I ever got)and gets little respect it starts looking like paranoia is taking a big hold.Back off on the paranoia. Educate yourselves as much as you can but when your ready to sign a lease take a deep breath and hire a professional.This is something you don't want to triffle with. I never could afford the fees but it was money well spent,we got it all back.
And who exactly are you going to hire when you didn't get what you thought you did?
I wouldn't go to a french restaurant and order unless I could speak french. But a bad meal wouldn't be nearly as upsetting as a life long bad deal.
One way or the other though, I would make sure that I understood the lease. Even with a professional you should understand the impact of what you are signing. Especially if you are outside of the city.
I will be dipping out of the bowl that is closest to me. I might suggest though before dipping in the bowl that is closest to me. You check for hamburger chunks.