This case takes place in Texas and involves an oil and petroleum extraction operation that allegedly caused contamination to the ocean, soil and groundwater. The plaintiff owned property that was located near oil wells that were a part of the defendant’s extraction operation. The defendant company began to drill exploratory wells in order to increase production at the site. As a result of this exploration, there were deposits of brine, naturally occurring radioactive materials, drilling fluids, hydrocarbons, heavy metal, and chlorides found in the soil and water on the plaintiff’s property. It is claimed the defendants did not properly operate or maintain safety and containment equipment that was used in connection with oil operation. It is alleged that the defendant knew, or should have known, that these materials were hazardous and toxic and had to be controlled and managed with care in order to avoid unnecessary risk to the public. A number of experts in environmental engineering, geophysics, oceanography and soil chemistry were sought to opine on this issue.
Question(s) For Expert Witness
1. Do you have extensive experience in petroleum engineering?
2. Please explain your experience working in the area of oil field contamination.
3. Are you qualified to testify about how improper oilfield operation can cause contamination?
4. Are you familiar with the dangers of being exposed to contaminants in soil and water?
5. What are the risks to the public?
Expert Witness Response E-004660
I am happy to review this case on behalf of the plaintiff. I have 35 years professional experience as a Petroleum Engineer working for the lease operator and the drilling contractor. I have domestic and international experience working in Texas, Louisiana, Venezuela, Trinidad and Brazil. I am qualified to testify in regards to how improper oilfield operation can cause contamination. While working for lease operators and drilling contractors, I have had to take all of the necessary precautions to prevent contamination. I have 27 years of experience as an expert witness. I also have experience working on similar cases involving oil field contamination, and I am familiar with the hazards created by contaminates from oil field drilling and production operations.
About the author
Joseph O'Neill
Joe has extensive experience in online journalism and technical writing across a range of legal topics, including personal injury, meidcal malpractice, mass torts, consumer litigation, commercial litigation, and more. Joe spent close to six years working at Expert Institute, finishing up his role here as Director of Marketing. He has considerable knowledge across an array of legal topics pertaining to expert witnesses. Currently, Joe servces as Owner and Demand Generation Consultant at LightSail Consulting.
