Eminent Domain
Condemnation
Process
Pre-Condemnation
Matters
The firm specializes in eminent domain. Our focus is on obtaining
maximum compensation for our clients. The firm represents
property owners and business owners. Our clients include residential,
business, and commercial owners. We have expertise in real
estate property valuation, access modification, condemnation
trials and appeals, contesting the right to take, and riparian
claims.
The firm will monitor the development of the government
taking throughout all stages of the process. The government
will hire its own team of experts to work against the value
of your property.
Brownstone will organize and prepare your case and assemble
experts to counter the government’s evaluation of your
property and defend your position. Our team will negotiate
with the government or condemning authority concerning compensation
and other important aspects about your property, including
land use, waiver from regulations, median openings, drainage
solutions, medians, and access.
We handle all aspects of condemnation from negotiation to
court proceedings and trial. All attorneys’ fees, including
costs for an appraiser, CPA, engineer, or surveyor are paid
by the government.
Brownstone will ensure that you receive full compensation.
Representing
Land & Business Owners in Eminent Domain
5 FACTS YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT
PROTECTING YOUR
PROPERTY
First, timing is everything. Most property owners discover that their
land or business may be the focus of an acquisition during
a public hearing or by a letter from the government. Normally
the earlier an attorney is retained, the better the property
owner is able to protect their rights. Following the notification
of the possible condemnation, the government initiates Pre-Condemnation
matters which require the skill and knowledge of an attorney.
An attorney will assist property owners with the Pre-Condemnation
matters.
Second, the target property may be subject to appraisal. Following
the public hearing, the government will notify the property
owner of its intent to appraise the target property. The property
owner will also be asked to negotiate with the government
or condemning authority about the appraisal of target property.
Retaining an attorney is a valuable part of your strategy
and maximizing the value of your property.
Third, the property owner may receive an initial
offer from the government or taking authority. The government
will make its initial offer to the property owner by written
correspondence. The property owner may not be informed about
the dangers associated with the acquisition of their property.
Fourth, the property owner may be asked to evaluate
the merits and conditions of the government’s offer
without an attorney present. The property owner may need an
attorney to work with the government, secure compensation,
and evaluate the consequences of accepting the government’s
offer.
Fifth, the Fifth Amendment of the United States Constitution states:
“Private property [shall not] be taken for public use,
without just compensation.”
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