
Eminent Domain & Condemnation Attorneys in Tennessee
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 and condemnation.
We care about your eminent domain case. Get in touch with our experienced eminent domain attorneys in Tennessee for the support you need in a difficult time. We’re happy to answer all of your questions.
What Is Eminent Domain in Tennessee?
Most commonly exercised for road projects, eminent domain is an entity’s right to “take” land and dedicate it to a “public use.” This essentially means that, unlike in traditional private land conveyances, the “seller” cannot stop the acquisition merely by rejecting the offer. In order to stop a taking initiated by a condemnor, a landowner must demonstrate to a court that the proposed acquisition does not comport with relevant law.
What Should Landowners Do After Receiving an Eminent Domain Notice in Tennessee?
Receiving notice or an offer to purchase property under threat of eminent domain can be a stressful situation for a landowner. Many times, it comes as a complete surprise to the affected property owner and can throw potential plans into chaos. The good news is that professionals dedicated to helping landowners out in this very situation exist and can aid landowners in figuring out how to handle the situation through the eminent domain process.
1. Find an Eminent Domain Attorney in Tennessee
If a landowner receives an offer on their property issued by the Tennessee Department of Transportation, or any other entity with the power of eminent domain, the absolute first thing they should do is contact a licensed, qualified, experienced eminent domain attorney. This cannot be stressed enough.
2. Educate Yourself (with the Help of Your Attorney)
With the assistance of the attorney the landowner contacted in step 1, a prepared landowner should get an understanding of how condemnation cases proceed in Tennessee. Getting a general sense of the nature of these acquisitions will go a long way toward succeeding in achieving the right amount of compensation.
3. Let Your Attorney Handle Negotiations
Letting an experienced attorney handle negotiations will give you the greatest chance of a favorable conclusion to your case. Attorneys are hired for a reason, and part of it is to unload the stress and concern associated with your case. Allowing your experienced eminent domain attorney to take full control over your case will give both parties the necessary space to get the job done.
4. Relax
If a landowner has followed steps 1-3, the landowner will have successfully allowed him or herself to loosen up a bit and take peace of mind that the case is being handled by a qualified professional. For many landowners, eminent domain is a (rightfully) stressful situation, but it doesn’t need to be.
How Sever Storey Can Help You
Dealing with eminent domain can be all-consuming and frustrating, and you certainly shouldn’t have to face off against the government or condemnor alone.
Sever Storey is eager to help protect the rights of landowners in Tennessee. We’ve offered our legal advice to clients all across the country, and we’re experienced with land takings of any scale. Whether you own retail space, farmland, residential property, or any other type of property, we’re here to ensure you get fair treatment in your eminent domain case.
We have offices or local counsel agreements throughout the U.S., including Tennessee, Georgia, Illinois, Indiana, North Carolina, Ohio, Texas and more. With our national reach, we can help you no matter where you are. Contact us today for the qualified eminent domain attorney in Tennessee you need.