Filing First

Filing first doesn’t always mean winning.

Sometimes it means spending more.

Sometimes it means losing leverage.

And sometimes it’s the only move that keeps you alive.

In the oilfield and in business, timing is everything.

Pull the trigger too fast—you burn bridges.

Wait too long—you lose your rights.

So how do you know when to file… and when to fight?

Here’s what we look at:

Don’t bluff.

File when forced.

Pause for pressure.

Use liens early.

Review the contract.

Know your forum.

Document everything daily.

Evaluate cash flow positions.

Understand who owes—and who controls.

Calculate whether delay helps you or helps them.

You don’t have to love litigation.

You just need to know when it’s the best tool left.