Ohio Eminent Domain Attorneys

Eminent Domain & Condemnation Attorneys in Ohio

At Sever Storey, our mission is to hold condemners—whether they be state, federal, local, utility, or other—accountable to the landowners whose land they are acquiring. Our entire firm is built around serving you, the landowner who is facing eminent domain or condemnation.

If an Ohio government agency has contacted you with an offer to buy your land, you are facing an Ohio eminent domain law case. Similarly, a pipeline or electrical utility may be demanding to use your land without purchasing it from you, using an easement.

We’re here to support you throughout the process of eminent domain. Fill out the form or contact us today with any questions you may have regarding your condemnation case.

What is Eminent Domain Law in Ohio?

According to eminent domain law in Ohio, the government has the right to take away private land to use for the public benefit. The term “eminent domain” refers to the power to acquire the property; the term “condemnation” refers to the process by which that power is exercised.

Eminent domain can generally be exercised by federal, state, and local governments, and in some instances, private companies, such as powerlines and pipelines, also have the power to take. Whoever is acquiring the land, the purpose of the acquisition must be for a “public use.”

What Should Landowners Do After Receiving An Eminent Domain Notice in Ohio?

If you’re a landowner who has received notice of eminent domain, you may feel overwhelmed, helpless, and at a loss. Where can you turn for support?

Since the party seizing your land has probably spent several years planning, it’s vital that you take action as quickly as possible. The faster you contact an eminent domain attorney in Ohio, the better chance you’ll have of getting just compensation and a more favorable outcome for your case.

You may not be able to stop the eminent domain process completely, but fortunately, there are a few things you can do to increase your compensation or benefits.

1. Hire an Eminent Domain Lawyer in Ohio

Most landowners don’t have a deep understanding of eminent domain law. And you don’t have to—just hire the right condemnation lawyer in Ohio, and you’ll have the best chance of getting a better outcome in your case. A condemnation lawyer will be able to walk you through the entire process and give advice as you navigate this often confusing and frustrating situation.

2. Learn About Your Rights as a Landowner

Though you may feel like the condemnor is all-powerful in this situation, you have rights too. As soon as you receive an eminent domain notice or compensation offer, your first step in ensuring success is to learn about what those rights are. A qualified, experienced eminent domain attorney should be able to educate you about what this process entails and what to expect.

3. Negotiate with the Help of a Lawyer

You have the right to negotiate with the government throughout the eminent domain process—but it’s not wise to go at it alone. You’ll have a far better chance of winning the case with an experienced eminent domain lawyer by your side. If the government has given you an unfair offer or is not offering you sufficient relocation benefits, your lawyer will be able to fight for your interests.

4. Take a Breath

If you have followed steps 1-3, you have positioned yourself for success, and what was once an incredibly stressful situation should be alleviated. Allowing your attorney to go to work and get you what you deserve can likewise allow you to relax and focus on other matters.

How Sever Storey Can Help You

The experienced eminent domain attorneys at Sever Storey are eager to help protect your rights. We’ve helped countless landowners across Ohio, and the rest of the U.S., get full compensation when their land was taken.

We’re here to defend your rights and ensure you get the best possible treatment in your situation. Contact us today for a free consultation.