Donald S. Smith

Don Smith joined Pray Walker in 1983 and has been a Shareholder since 1990. Practicing in the areas of energy, environmental and title examination law, his primary emphasis is in energy transactions, principally representing oil and gas producers and operators in the purchase and sale of exploration and production assets, gathering and other midstream properties and energy-related surface facilities. 

Don has negotiated, coordinated and closed numerous energy transactions including divestitures, joint development agreements, “drillco” and other participation agreements, and exploration agreements. He has conducted and overseen many title due diligence projects in multi-state transactions involving the purchase or collateralization of oil and gas assets. Don works with clients’ day-to-day drafting and negotiation of service agreements, joint operating agreements and marketing contracts.  Don has also represented clients invested in alternative fuels such as biodiesel and wind, and oil companies involved in hydrocarbon remediations and “brownfields” redevelopments in California, New Jersey, Vermont and in Ontario, Canada.

Don is listed in Best Lawyers in America in the areas of Energy Law (2007-2022) and Natural Resources Law/Oil and Gas Law (2013-2022). He is also listed in Oklahoma’s Super Lawyers (2013-2022).  Don is licensed to practice in Oklahoma and Texas.