Upstream Legal Advisors

Your Counsel

Strategic Legal Insight for the Energy Sector

Upstream Legal Advisors delivers expert counsel in oil & gas contract structuring, compliance, and risk mitigation globally.

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About Us

Upstream Legal Advisors is a premier law firm specializing in the complex legal landscape of the global oil and gas industry. With decades of collective experience, our team of attorneys and consultants are well-versed in navigating upstream energy contracts, multinational regulatory frameworks, and high-stakes oil sales transactions.

Our reputation is built on precision, responsiveness, and a deep understanding of the intricacies of cross-border energy deals. We work closely with oil producers, investors, and governments to safeguard legal interests and maximize value across the deal lifecycle. From contract drafting to arbitration support, our firm ensures our clients achieve operational continuity and legal compliance in every jurisdiction they operate in.

We recognize that the upstream oil and gas sector demands swift, intelligent action. That’s why our approach combines rigorous due diligence with real-world insight to solve today’s regulatory and commercial challenges. Whether advising on production sharing agreements, advising on state licensing compliance, or vetting acquisition targets, Upstream Legal Advisors is the trusted partner for risk-sensitive legal counsel.

Our firm is headquartered in Houston, TX, with a global network of legal professionals across Europe, the Middle East, and Africa. Our multilingual, multidisciplinary team is committed to delivering practical legal outcomes tailored to your specific business goals.

Our Services

Contract Negotiation

Expert drafting and review of oil sales agreements, joint operating agreements (JOAs), and production sharing contracts (PSCs).

Regulatory Compliance

Advisory services on energy sector laws, export regulations, and environmental licensing across multiple jurisdictions.

Due Diligence

Comprehensive risk analysis for mergers, acquisitions, and investment into upstream oil projects.

Risk Management

Legal strategies for managing geopolitical, operational, and compliance risks in volatile markets.

International Arbitration Support

Representation and advisory in cross-border energy disputes and ICSID arbitration matters.

Licensing & Permitting

Support in acquiring exploration and production licenses, local government approvals, and environmental permits.

Meet Our Team of Experts

John Carter - Managing Partner

John Carter

Managing Partner

Former General Counsel at a major U.S. oil producer with 20+ years in upstream M&A and cross-border contract negotiation.

Sarah Chen - Regulatory Specialist

Sarah Chen

Regulatory Specialist

Expert in U.S. and EU environmental compliance, with a strong background in international energy trade law.

David Okoro - Arbitration Counsel

David Miles

Arbitration Counsel

Leads our arbitration practice, representing clients in ICSID and UNCITRAL disputes related to oil & gas transactions in Africa and the Middle East.

Anna Petrova - Licensing Advisor

Anna Petrova

Licensing & Permitting Advisor

Advises global clients on licensing strategy and regulatory approvals across emerging upstream markets.

Connect With Us

Looking for trusted legal counsel in oil & gas? We’re ready to support your next project.