Condemnation

Under the powers of eminent domain, the federal and state governments can take your private property for a public purpose, such as building schools or highways. Although government entities will first offer you compensation for your land, the amount they offer is often well below market value. Should you choose to reject their offer, the government will then file a lawsuit to have your land “condemned.” We might not be able to stop your property from being taken, but we will work to ensure that you get a fair market value for your land.

You have a right to be compensated fairly for your property. Even if only a portion of your land is taken, you are entitled not only to compensation for the value of the property taken, but also for any loss in value caused to your remaining land. In determining the amount of your compensation, the government must take into account the “highest and best use” of the property, even if you are not currently using the property in such a manner. We will use our knowledge and experience with land condemnation maters to make sure that all of your rights are honored, and that you get the compensation you deserve for the loss of your property.

Our attorneys have played an active role in many condemnation cases, representing clients throughout North Carolina in all matters surrounding the condemnation process, including securing and reviewing appraisals, negotiations and trials.

If a government entity is trying to take your property, please call (919) 754-1600 to schedule a free consultation to speak with one of our attorneys about your rights as a landowner, or click here to email Bryan Brice or Catherine Cralle Jones.