Sometimes, the government needs additional land to widen roads, extend railroads or build facilities for public use. As there are limited government lands, the state must negotiate with private property owners to seize land before proceeding with their projects. This...
Eminent Domain
Knowing your rights: Relocation assistance under eminent domain
In Texas, if a governmental authority or private utility company is considering taking your property for public use, you might feel uncertain about your next steps. You may even wonder about where you will live, how you will afford the move or how you will handle the...
How can I secure fair compensation for an eminent domain claim?
When you receive notice that the government wants to acquire your property through eminent domain, it can feel quite unsettling and upsetting. You have worked hard for your property; the thought of parting with it, especially involuntarily, seems unfair. Eminent...
Can a private company seize your property for public use?
When you own property in Texas, you have certain rights that come with that ownership. But what happens when the government wants to use your land for something deemed to be in the public interest? You might find yourself in this situation if your property is in the...
What Texas landowners should know about eminent domain
Eminent domain can be a scary concept for a Texas landowner. The thought of a government entity or some other party being able to seize your property can be stressful, but it can happen. That’s why landowners must be aware of their rights when it comes to protecting...
The right to fair compensation in Texas eminent domain cases
In Texas, understanding eminent domain is particularly relevant due to the state's expansive infrastructure projects and continuous development. Eminent domain is the right of the government to seize private property. It is a legal concept that allows government...
What constitutes “public use” for the purposes of eminent domain?
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...
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...