In most legal cases, the party against whom the claim is filed has engaged in some type of wrongdoing to harm the plaintiff and they may even expect that legal action will be taken against them. However, eminent domain cases are very different than other types of civil matters. If you receive notice that a condemnation action has been filed against you in Ohio or any other state, it is not because you did anything wrong. One minute, you are simply living your life and the next, your most valuable asset is threatened—the very property on which you live or work. In this situation, it is not surprisingly that you may not know what to do or where to turn.
Seek legal counsel as soon as possible
When they receive notice of an eminent domain action, too many landowners do not realize that they have legal rights. An experienced condemnation attorney can advise you of all of your rights so that you can better understand how the process works. Some rights that you have include:
• The right to have the condemnation justified by public use;1
• The right to just compensation2 for your losses;
• The right to have only the minimum amount of property affected that is necessary.
An attorney can advise you on the proper course of action in your case and ensure you do not miss court dates, that your rights are protected, and that the process goes as efficiently for you as possible.
Discuss your case with a qualified Ohio eminent domain lawyer today
If you purchased property, you should be able to enjoy that property freely and free from the threat that your land will suddenly be taken away from you through no fault of your own. At the law office of Sever Walker Padgitt, LLP, our highly experienced condemnation attorneys are focused on helping landowners in and around Ohio defend their property rights in an eminent domain case. The legal process can be confusing though we will lead you through every step of the way. Please do not hesitate to call us at 888-318-3761 for a free consultation today.
1http://www.law.harvard.edu/programs/olin_center/fellows_papers/pdf/Kelly_5.pdf
2https://lawreview.law.ucdavis.edu/issues/41/1/articles/DavisVol41No1_Wyman.pdf
