Netahla v. Netahla

The opinion of the court was delivered by

Beier, J.:

This appeal arises out of a dispute over whether the mineral interest conveyed by a 1970 mineral deed terminated after 15 years, despite its recitation that it was “subject to” a continuing oil and gas lease covering the same property. We hold that the mineral deed terminated and thus reverse the district court and the Court of Appeals.

Factual and Procedural Background

Plaintiffs-appellants Larry Netahla and Janet Netahla Curtis are the sole heirs of Joe and Rose Netahla, the grantors. Defendants-appellees Mike Netahla and Debra Francis are…