Is there a way to transfer ownership of files after the owner has left the group if you don't have access to the original owner's email or log-in info?
I do. They actually have not even left yet but they keep ignoring my requests to transfer ownership. I am trying to anticipate the challanges we will run into if she never responds and just leaves (which looks to be the direction we're heading).
No. The owner of a folder needs to transfer ownership before they leave the folder. You'll need to create a new share, copy or move the files into it and re-invite anyone that needs access.
Thanks, Rich. Do we lose anything if they don't transfer ownership?
You don't lose what you already have, but you also don't gain anything. You can't change share permissions, and if the folder was previously set to not allow editors the ability to invite new members, you're stuck with what you have.
You said you don't have access to their account. Do you still have access to the person? After re-reading the help article on this, you might try to contact them and see if they can add the folder back to their account. If they can, they can transfer ownership then leave it again.