SOUTH CAROLINA EMINENT DOMAIN ATTORNEYS

Eminent Domain Attorneys & Lawyers in South Carolina

Landowners going through eminent domain in South Carolina often feel powerless and overwhelmed. But the eminent domain attorneys at Sever Storey are here to offer guidance and support. As experts in eminent domain and condemnation, we hold all levels of government and private entities accountable when exercising the right to eminent domain.

What Is Eminent Domain Law in South Carolina?

Eminent domain law in South Carolina gives certain government and private groups the right to take privately owned land for public purposes. Land might be taken to build roads, highways, pipelines, government buildings, and more. When the group exercising eminent domain actually takes the land, the act is known as condemnation.

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

Landowners who have received an eminent domain notice in South Carolina should act with urgency. The condemnor may have spent months or even years planning the taking of the land, and every minute of delay could influence how the case plays out in court. Landowners should:

- Hire an experienced eminent domain attorney in South Carolina. A knowledgeable eminent domain lawyer has the experience needed to navigate the court system and ensure justice is served.

- Take time to learn about landowner rights. Landowners have rights, too. Take time to learn how the eminent domain law in South Carolina protects you as a landowner.

- Allow the attorney to handle negotiations. It may be tempting to negotiate on your own, but it’s important to let an experienced professional handle this process in order to get the possible outcome.

Eminent Domain Just Compensation in South Carolina

Unfortunately, the definition of “just compensation” in South Carolina is frequently up for debate, with naive landowners settling for lowball offers from their condemnors. So what classifies as just compensation?
According to South Carolina law, every landowner is entitled to compensation that equals or exceeds the current market value of their property. An eminent domain attorney in South Carolina can help landowners get the compensation they deserve.

Eminent Domain Relocation Costs in South Carolina

Many South Carolina landowners are subject to a total taking, meaning their home or business must be moved to a new location. Of course, this requires money, and the condemnor is obligated to compensate the landowner for these relocation costs.

Condemnors often underestimate these costs, but the right eminent domain attorney can ensure landowners receive the full amount required to cover their needs.

What Are The Limits of Eminent Domain in South Carolina?

Landowners may be intimidated by their condemnor, but according to South Carolina law, there are certainly limits to their power. The government or private entity taking the land must adhere to the following conditions:

- Provide adequate eminent domain notice.
- Offer just compensation in exchange for the land.
- Deliver a copy of the appraisal to the landowner.
- Give notice of eminent domain proceedings.

How Long Do Eminent Domain Cases Take in South Carolina?

The exact timeline for eminent domain cases in South Carolina may vary depending on whether the case requires litigation. Some cases may be resolved in just a few months, while others may last for 8 months or more.

Can Eminent Domain in South Carolina Be Stopped?

It is not likely for eminent domain cases in South Carolina to be stopped completely. In order for this to happen, an attorney would need to prove that the condemnor has done something illegal in the eminent domain process.

The more likely result is that an attorney helps the landowner obtain more favorable compensation and relocation benefits.

How Sever Storey Can Help You

At Sever Storey, we’re committed to helping landowners receive the fair treatment and compensation they are entitled to when facing eminent domain. As experts in eminent domain and condemnation law, we will fight for your rights and balance the scales of justice. We’ve helped countless landowners across the country, from Illinois and Ohio to Texas and Georgia.

Our mission is to hold condemnors, whether they be State, Federal, Local, Utility or University, 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.