Virginia Eminent Domain Attorneys

Eminent Domain & Condemnation Attorneys - Virginia

Sever Storey is committed to the fight for justice on behalf of landowners across the nation faced with eminent domain. Whether you own a retail space, farmland, or residence, we can help protect your rights as you face off against your condemnor in the eminent domain process. Our firm was founded with the sole purpose of serving you in your time of need.

What Is Eminent Domain Law in Virginia?

In Virginia, numerous groups (such as the state or federal government, universities, or utility companies) are granted the right to take private land and use it for public means. For example: a utility company may seize a commercial space to build a pipeline, or the government might seize a residence in order to build a highway. Many landowners are treated unfairly in this process, and it’s crucial to have a skilled attorney to fight for justice.

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

Landowners who receive notice of eminent domain in Virginia should begin planning their strategy for responding immediately. But before doing so, it’s important to have an experienced eminent domain attorney in Virginia to protect their rights. Here’s how a landowner should proceed after receiving an eminent domain notice:

- Contact an eminent domain attorney in Virginia: An attorney will have your best interests in mind and know the ins and outs of the eminent domain process.
- Learn about landowner rights: Your attorney will help you understand your rights and ensure fair treatment in the courts.
- Allow an attorney to negotiate with the condemnor: Don’t negotiate on your own—allow an expert to handle the task.

Eminent Domain Just Compensation in Virginia

There are many terms for landowners to learn during the process of eminent domain, and “just compensation” is one of the most important. Just compensation in eminent domain is traditionally equal to the fair market value of the property at the time of the acquisition. Yet oftentimes, landowners receive far less compensation than they deserve under the law. It takes a skilled attorney to ensure a landowner receives “just” compensation in Virginia.

Eminent Domain Relocation Costs in Virginia

Whether a landowner is forced to find a new home or reestablish their business, moving costs can add up quickly. It is the responsibility of the landowner to provide compensation for these expenses, but all too often these costs are underestimated. Fortunately, the right lawyer can ensure landowners receive fair relocation benefits in exchange for the taking of land.

What Are the Limits of Eminent Domain in Virginia?

Condemnors in Virginia are restricted by certain legal limits. For example, eminent domain law requires them to:
- Provide notice of eminent domain.
- Offer just compensation in exchange for land.
- Negotiate compensation with the landowner.
- Provide the landowner with a copy, or summary of, the appraisal they performed on the property.

How Long Do Eminent Domain Cases Take in Virginia?

Eminent domain cases in Virginia can take anywhere from a couple of months to a year or more. The timeline can be influenced by many factors, such as the nature of the case and whether litigation is necessary.

Can Eminent Domain in Virginia Be Stopped?

In some rare situations, an attorney can fight to stop eminent domain in Virginia. In order for this to occur, the attorney would need to prove some way the condemnor has broken the law, such as using the land for a private project or not providing notice of eminent domain.

However, it is more common for an attorney to help a landowner secure greater compensation in exchange for their land.

How Sever Storey Can Help You

When you’re looking for an expert who will stand up for your rights, the attorneys at Sever Storey will be by your side. We’ve advised countless clients across the nation, from Ohio to Texas and beyond. We’ll work tirelessly to ensure you receive fair treatment and get the compensation you rightfully deserve for your land.