Eminent Domain Litigation
Most people become aware of the government’s power of eminent domain when they discover that their property is needed for a public project, such as road improvements, a new school, utility upgrades, conservation or an airport expansion. Eminent domain refers to the power of the government to take private property and convert it into public use, however, the fifth amendment provides that the government may only exercise this power if they provide just compensation to the property owners. This area of legal practice requires a comprehensive understanding of multiple real property disciplines including constitutional law, litigation, civil procedure, zoning, land planning, engineering and land valuation. Illinois law guarantees the right to a jury trial for all parties to an eminent domain case. Our attorneys have extensive experience in eminent domain and therefore hiring them is an essential initial step toward ensuring that the government has the proper authority to acquire your property and to ensure that you receive fair compensation for your property.