
Eminent Domain & Condemnation Attorneys - Washington
Sever Storey is your source of support and expertise when facing eminent domain in Washington. We’ve handled all types of condemnation cases, meaning we have the knowledge required to fight for your rights. It doesn’t matter if your condemnor is from the state, federal government, a utility company, or otherwise—we’ll be there to serve you until you receive fair treatment.
What Is Eminent Domain Law in Washington?
Eminent domain law in Washington states that the government and other select entities have the right to take private land and use it for public purposes. The term refers only to the right to exercise this power, while the actual act of taking the land is called condemnation. Condemnors may take any type of private land and use it for building roads, buildings, parks, pipelines, and more.
What Should Landowners Do After Receiving an Eminent Domain Notice in Washington.
Every landowner who has received an eminent domain notice knows the feeling of frustration and powerlessness that comes along with it. But don’t fall into that trap—the right eminent domain attorney can offer support.
If you’re facing eminent domain in Washington, act quickly and be sure to do the following:
- Find an experienced eminent domain attorney in Washington. This is your best chance at receiving full compensation and benefits in exchange for your land.
- Learn more about landowner rights. Does it seem like your condemnor has all the power? Well, you have rights, too. Let your attorney educate you on these rights to ensure the best outcome.
- Let your attorney negotiate on your behalf. Don’t fight your condemnor alone. Allow your lawyer to conduct negotiations and use their expertise to your advantage.
Eminent Domain Just Compensation in Washington
Every landowner is entitled to just compensation when a condemnor takes their land. So what exactly does the term mean?
As you can imagine, the details of just compensation are often debated in the courts. In reality, the term requires that landowners receive the full market value for their land (or greater). However, many landowners end up getting the short end of the stick when it comes to negotiating with their condemnor. An attorney is often necessary to avoid this predicament.
Eminent Domain Relocation Costs in Washington
Simply put, moving costs money—especially when a landowner is forced to move their business, farm, or residence. Hence, landowners are also entitled to relocation benefits when their land is taken. It’s important to have an attorney who can make sure you’re given the full amount needed to relocate.
What Are the Limits of Eminent Domain in Washington
Washington law does put clear limits on eminent domain, but an attorney is often needed to make sure condemnors are held accountable to these restrictions. Here are some of the limits of eminent domain in Washington:
- Condemnors must provide adequate notice of eminent domain
- Condemnors need to show a certificate of land appraisal
- Condemnors must offer just compensation and be open to negotiations
How Long Do Eminent Domain Cases Take in Washington?
Eminent domain cases in Washington can take just a few months to resolve, several months, or even a year or more. Ultimately, the time frame depends on a wide range of factors, such as the type of land being seized and the need for litigation.
Can Eminent Domain in Washington Be Stopped?
It’s not often that an eminent domain case in Washington is fully put to a halt. For that to happen, an attorney would need to prove that the condemnor broke the law or did not stay within the limits of eminent domain in some way.
Usually, a skilled eminent domain attorney helps a landowner get the full compensation and relocation benefits they are rightfully entitled to under state law.
How Sever Storey Can Help You
Sever Storey is dedicated to helping landowners when they need it most. After offering legal expertise to countless clients across the country, we’re confident we can help you with your eminent domain case in Washington. Allow us to defend your rights and help you receive full compensation for your land.