This paper provides a high level introduction to common elements of the domestic petroleum and natural gas legal practice. First, the paper discusses Alberta’s tenure system, which governs, administers, and regulates Alberta’s mineral rights regime. Next, the paper outlines various contractual arrangements affecting participants involved into the exploration, development, and production of petroleum and natural gas. Finally, this paper discusses the nature and importance of legal due diligence in transactions.

This paper was presented at the Corporate Law for Legal Support Staff seminar held in February, 2013.