When most people think of eminent domain, they likely think of cities claiming residential or commercial properties to build highways or shopping centers or simply due to urban blight.1 However, eminent domain actions occur in more rural areas, as well, since the government wants to increase the residential, commercial, or industrial opportunities in these areas. Unfortunately, much of the land in rural areas is owned by farmers who depend upon their land for their livelihood. If they lose their land, they lose much more than simply a home or a commercial building. Instead, they lose years of hard work building up their operations that likely cannot be recreated in another location.
The government rarely makes an offer of compensation to a farmer that is even remotely close to the true value the landowner deserves in exchange for the land. Any farm owner facing a condemnation action should be represented by an eminent domain attorney with specific knowledge in the appraisal of farm lands.
Even partial takings can be costly
Farmers tend to own acres and acres of land on which they may have several different fields or crops, pastures, orchards, cattle operations, among many other things that bring in income. When the government wants to claim farm land, often only a portion of the farmer’s land is taken. The government may make a low offer based on the fact that the farmer is still retaining a large part of the land. However, even partial takings2 of farm land can be extremely costly to a landowner for several reasons, including the following:
These are only some of the ways that a partial condemnation can affect the value of farm land.
Contact an experienced eminent domain attorney to discuss your case today
If you are a farmer or any other type of landowner facing total or partial condemnation, your first call should be to the law office of Sever Storey, LLP. Contact our experienced condemnation attorneys at 888-318-3761 today for help.
References:
What are the unique issues that face commercial property owners in condemnation that can make all the difference?
LEARN MORELandowners forget this one thing when dealing with utility companies that want an easement across their land.
LEARN MOREWhat you need to know to be treated fairly by the condemning authority.
LEARN MOREBefore going alone against the State let us give you our opinion. It is our pledge that we will provide a free case review for any individual or business facing eminent domain or condemnation. Contact us now at 888-318-3761