
Eminent Domain & Condemnation Attorneys - Oklahoma
Sever Storey prioritizes the rights of landowners across the nation even when the government taking your property is not. If you’re subject to eminent domain in Oklahoma, we’ll hold your condemnors accountable for their actions and fight for justice in the courts. We are here to serve your needs.
In Oklahoma, state, federal, and even some private groups are entitled to seize private land for a public use. This right is known as eminent domain. When the entity takes the land, the process is referred to as condemnation. Hence, the entity taking the land is called the “condemnor.”
What Should Landowners Do After Receiving an Eminent Domain Notice in Oklahoma?
There’s nothing that can prepare a landowner for the moment of receiving an eminent domain notice. Having land taken away by the government can be shocking, unsettling, and stressful. But it’s important to take swift action. Here’s what a landowner can do to get the best possible outcome of their situation:
- Hire an eminent domain attorney: An eminent domain attorney in Oklahoma has the knowledge and expertise to ensure justice is served. Your attorney will be there to advise and fight for your rights—so it’s essential to hire an attorney right away.
- Learn about your landowner rights: Though you may feel completely powerless, you have landowner rights during the condemnation process. Your lawyer will educate you about those rights so you can use them to your advantage.
- Let your lawyer negotiate: Your lawyer is your best chance at receiving full compensation for your land. Allow them to negotiate with your condemnor on your behalf.
Eminent Domain Just Compensation in Oklahoma
Landowners in Oklahoma are entitled to compensation in exchange for the taking of their private land. The law states that this compensation should be “just.” But what exactly is just compensation? Unfortunately, many condemnors do not offer a fair payment prior to exercising their condemnation authority, but a lawyer can help the landowner fight for the compensation that a landowner is entitled to.
Eminent Domain Relocation Costs in Oklahoma
When a residence or business requires relocation as a consequence of eminent domain in Oklahoma, the landowner may face costs that quickly add up: from physically moving your belongings or inventory to transitioning and re-establishing the business, these costs should be reimbursed through compensation from the condemnor. Again, many landowners are short-changed in this process. But an eminent domain attorney in Oklahoma can help landowners get the payment they deserve.
What Are the Limits of Eminent Domain in Oklahoma?
Eminent domain law limits the rights of condemnors in Oklahoma. For example, condemnors must:
- Provide fair notice of eminent domain.
- Notify the landowner of court proceedings.
- Share a copy of their justification for their initial offer to the landowner.
- Provide just compensation.
Eminent domain cases vary in length, depending on numerous factors. Cases that do not need litigation may resolve fairly quickly (within a few months); while cases that do require litigation could take eight months or more.
Can Eminent Domain in Oklahoma Be Stopped?
It is not typical for eminent domain in Oklahoma to be completely stopped. In order for this to occur, the lawyer must be able to prove that the condemnor has broken the law in some way. In most cases, an eminent domain attorney helps a landowner receive greater compensation or relocation benefits.
How Sever Storey Can Help You
Sever Storey has a team of skilled eminent domain lawyers to protect your landowner rights. From Georgia to Illinois, we’ve helped landowners like you earn greater compensation and get fair treatment in the face-off against their condemnor.
The process of eminent domain can be extremely turbulent, but the right lawyer can make the process much less overwhelming. Make sure your rights are recognized by hiring the team at Sever Storey. We’ll consider all damages you may have suffered as a landowner and fight for you in the Oklahoma courts.