What happens to an oil and gas lease executed by a minor?

An oil and gas lease executed by a minor is classified as invalid and voidable by the minor. Minors, typically defined as individuals under the age of 18, lack the legal capacity to enter into binding contracts, including leases. This principle is grounded in the law which aims to protect minors from entering agreements they may not fully understand or be capable of fulfilling.

As a result, when a minor signs an oil and gas lease, they hold the right to void or disaffirm the contract at their discretion, thereby ensuring they are not held to its terms. This legal protection remains in effect until the individual reaches the age of majority, typically 18 in most jurisdictions, at which point they can ratify the lease if they choose to do so.

In contrast, options that suggest the lease is valid or remains enforceable until the minor turns 21 overlook the fundamental legal protections provided to minors regarding contractual agreements. This includes the ability to void contracts, thereby emphasizing the distinction between the legal capacities of minors and adults.