The concept of eminent domain allows the government to seize private property for public use. However, this authority has its limits, some of which are set by the definition of its aspects, such as the term “public use”. If you are a property owner who wants to ensure...
Eminent Domain
Is the government eyeing your property? What you can do
Imagine simply enjoying the fruits of your labor and facing a Texas government claim on your land the next day. While upsetting, this scenario happens quite often. It arises due to the state’s authority to invoke eminent domain laws or to take private property for...
Have you been victimized by inverse condemnation?
In most eminent domain cases, the government approaches property owners to discuss paying just compensation in exchange for taking land for public use. Even though that sounds straightforward, there can be complications along the way, including arguments over whether...
What does just compensation include for commercial property owners?
No matter what land or property the government or other entities target for public use acquisition, they must compensate the affected owners accordingly. However, owners receive varying compensation depending on the nature of their property. The government primarily...
Appraisals can play a crucial role in eminent domain cases
The term “just compensation” is a crucial part of the eminent domain process. The concept is fairly simple: if the condemning entity is permitted to take your land or property rights then, in return, the property owner is supposed to receive just compensation for that...
What does just compensation in eminent domain cases cover?
Eminent domain is a tricky topic for ordinary land and property owners. Nevertheless, they should know its basic elements, especially if their property is subject to government acquisition. One of the essential elements of eminent domain is just compensation – the...
Can I refuse eminent domain on my property?
Like many states, Texas is rich in land, comprising millions of acres devoted to farms, ranches and forests. Many of these are privately-owned working properties. Since the state does not have much public land, the government and private enterprises often acquire...
Is it possible for the government to take your private property?
When you own land or a home on a plot of land, you probably assume that you will be able to use that land however you choose. It probably never crossed your mind that another person or party could require you to hand over a portion of that property. However, there are...
What happens during an eminent domain proceeding?
Property owners will find it beneficial to know their rights and how they can protect their interests in the event they find themselves in a land-use dispute. One way this happens is through the application of eminent domain, a legal principle that gives the...
Owner fights eminent domain to save her business
Many state and local governments reserve the authority to seize and condemn private property for projects that will benefit the general public. In fact, the U.S. Constitution allows the seizure of property by governments provided the property owner receives fair...