When the government is trying to take your part or all of your land through eminent domain powers, you can feel very helpless. It is important to remember that you do not have to face this process alone and that there are many ways in which an experienced condemnation attorney can assist you, provide peace of mind, and protect your rights to your land ownership.
The process of condemnation can be complicated and involves the civil justice system. Any situation involving the courts can seem intimidating and will involve specific deadlines and procedures. From the moment you receive notice of a possible eminent domain action, our attorneys will guide you through every step of the process to ensure you do not miss a deadline and that you are properly represented in court.
If your land is taken through eminent domain, the 5th Amendment of the U.S. Constitution1 requires that you receive proper compensation, otherwise known as “just compensation.” Just compensation can include the following and more:
-Fair market value of your land.
-Fair market value for easements or partial takings Reimbursement for damage caused to the land Value of potential future use of the land
-Relocation expenses
-Any other relevant or unique value the land may hold
Generally speaking, the first offer for compensation will be substantially lower than you deserve.
An attorney can help you determine the true amount you deserve and negotiate to ensure you receive full and just compensation.
In some rare cases, an attempted taking should not actually be authorized under the law. Landowners can challenge a taking entirely if the purpose is not for a public use or if the land sought is not necessary for the purpose. An attorney can identify when a challenge is appropriate and can protect your ownership of your land.
If your land is vulnerable to eminent domain, you should never wait to call our office to discuss the many ways in which we can assist you. At the law office of Sever Storey, our team of eminent domain lawyers is ready to help landowners throughout North Carolina, Indiana, Illinois, Ohio, and Kentucky. Call today for a free consultation at 888-318-3761.
1https://www.law.cornell.edu/constitution/fifth_amendment
What are the unique issues that face commercial property owners in condemnation that can make all the difference?
LEARN MORELandowners forget this one thing when dealing with utility companies that want an easement across their land.
LEARN MOREWhat you need to know to be treated fairly by the condemning authority.
LEARN MOREBefore going alone against the State let us give you our opinion. It is our pledge that we will provide a free case review for any individual or business facing eminent domain or condemnation. Contact us now at 888-318-3761