MARYLAND EMINENT DOMAIN ATTORNEYS

EMINENT DOMAIN ATTORNEYS & LAWYERS IN Maryland

Is the government or a utility seeking to take your private land away from you via eminent domain? If so, Sever Storey can offer the expertise and support you’re seeking. We pride ourselves in fighting for the rights of landowners from Georgia to North Carolina and beyond. We’ve seen all types of eminent domain cases in Maryland, and we’re ready to help.

What is Eminent Domain Law in Maryland?

According to Maryland law, an entity authorized with the power of eminent domain (generally local, state, federal governments, and sometimes private groups such as utilities) has the power to seize private land and put it toward a public use. This use can include the construction of a freeway, public space, public school, and more. However, these entities often take advantage of landowners and in some cases, fail to follow the law in the exercise of this authority. Eminent domain law is complex and nuanced, and any landowner faced with this prospect should contact a qualified eminent domain attorney for advice on how to handle the situation.

What Should Landowners Do After Receiving an Eminent Domain Notice in Maryland?

If you are a landowner who has received an offer of compensation and/or a notice that an entity seeks to acquire your property via eminent domain, it is imperative to immediately create a plan and strategy for responding to this notice. Following these steps can increase your chances of a just and correct outcome:

1. Contact an eminent domain attorney in Maryland

A reputable attorney can walk you through the process and procedure of eminent domain.

2. Become educated on landowner rights

By knowing more about eminent domain law in Maryland, you’ll be better equipped to advocate for your rights.

3. Relax

Eminent domain is an incredibly stressful situation, but if you hire the right attorney, you may be afforded the invaluable opportunity to relax and focus on other things.Eminent Domain Just Compensation in Maryland

Luckily, condemnors don’t just get to take the land and walk away. Instead, they must provide a fair monetary exchange for the land. But not all landowners get the compensation they deserve. Qualified lawyers and appraisers can make sure the compensation you receive matches the market value of the land.

Eminent Domain Relocation Costs

Moving can be expensive—especially when a retail space or office must be moved to a new property. For this reason, landowners have the right to relocation benefits along with monetary compensation for the taking of the land. An experienced eminent domain attorney in Maryland can help the landowner get the best relocation benefits possible.

What Are the Limits of Eminent Domain in Maryland

Does your condemnor seem to have all of the power in your eminent domain case? Fortunately, there are limits to their rights. And, knowing those limits can help you come out ahead in your case. According to Maryland law, condemnors must:

-Offer compensation prior to exercising eminent domain
-Provide sufficient notice of any eminent domain proceedings
-Ensure that the property acquired is dedicated to a public use.

How Long Do Eminent Domain Cases Take in Maryland?

The timing for eminent domain cases in Maryland depends on elements including the type of land, the nature of the taking, and how the landowner responds to the initial offer. If the case involves litigation, it could last 12 months or longer. However, cases without litigation may be wrapped up in just a few months.

Can Eminent Domain in Maryland Be Stopped?

In some circumstances, a landowner may be able to mount a successful challenge to stop a taking. These situations are rare. As long as the entity seeking to acquire the property follows Maryland condemnation law, they will be able to forcefully acquire your property if they want/need to.

How Sever Storey Can Help You

Don’t let a condemnor abuse its eminent domain authority. Take action, get educated on your rights, and work with an experienced condemnation attorney at Sever Storey. We have the resources and expertise to help you get the best outcome for your case, including increased compensation and relocation benefits.

And, if your condemnor isn’t following the laws of eminent domain in Maryland, we’ll be the first to point it out in courts. Allow us to defend your rights as a landowner today.