Legal Guidance Throughout the Eminent Domain Process
An Experienced Dallas Law Firm Serving Property Owners in North Texas
Even though you are dealing with the government, you do not have to feel intimidated and accept the first offer in a condemnation. When you know how to navigate the process, you can greatly increase the amount of money you receive for your property. The cost of an attorney is usually recouped many times over in the amount of payment you receive when using an experienced lawyer to assert your property rights.
At the Pendery Law Firm, we know this area of law and will provide you with trustworthy legal guidance every step of the way. We will tell you when you need a lawyer and when you don't. There are times when your money is better spent on an appraiser. We will tell you that. Contact us by calling 972-499-4428 or 888-869-4496 to discuss the most effective methods to protect your rights as a landowner.
Navigating the Eminent Domain Process
Here are some descriptions of steps that may apply to your situation:
- Receive condemnation notice: You may have heard rumors about a potential project being developed in your community or received a condemnation notice from the Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT), the North Texas Tollway Authority (NTTA) or another governmental entity. In takings for the building of schools, freeways, and pipelines, property owners do not usually have the ability to contest the condemnation of their property, however we may be able to avoid or minimize the taking of your property. If not, we will certainly help you get more money and negotiate the timing and conditions of relocation.
- Negotiations: Even though you are dealing with the government, there is no reason to feel intimidated or to accept the first offer. You can raise the amount of your compensation through negotiation. Depending on the details of your unique situation, you may or may not need to be represented by a lawyer during eminent domain negotiations.
- Refuse offer (Petition in Condemnation): If you refuse the government's offers, it will file a petition in condemnation, then a judge will appoint three Special Commissioners to assess a value for the taking. Our founder, attorney Julia Pendery, has served as a Special Commissioner and has intimate knowledge of this stage. She will find a good appraiser and come up with creative ways to persuade the Special Commissioners to award you a fair amount.
- County court litigation: If either side appeals the decision made by the Special Commissioners, your case will proceed through the standard lawsuit process, possibly mediation, and, if necessary, trial to a judge or jury. Julia knows every step of this process and how to work for maximum benefits from a judge and jury.
By skillfully navigating this legal process, you can greatly increase the compensation you receive for your land. Contact me to receive an honest and straightforward assessment of your case.
For more detailed information about eminent domain and the process involved, please visit the Eminent Domain Article.