Lee County Eminent Domain Attorney
Texas is full of natural resources and open land, and many property owners reap the benefits of the state’s natural abundance. However, state and federal government agencies have the right to exercise eminent domain and force property owners to sell their land for public use.
If you are facing condemnation in Lee County, Texas, the attorneys at Marrs, Ellis & Hodge, LLP can help. Our eminent domain attorneys will fight for your best interests during the process, helping secure the compensation that you deserve.
Why Choose Us
- Over the past 10 years, our attorneys have successfully represented hundreds of property owners across the state of Texas. We have the skills and experience necessary to handle your eminent domain case.
- Our firm is dedicated to securing maximum compensation in your case. Our attorneys have secured eight-figure settlements and jury verdicts on behalf of our clients.
- Our Texas eminent domain lawyers have won multiple awards and recognitions for our dedication to our clients. We have received repeated Super Lawyer and Best Lawyer designations, and a preeminent AV rating by Martindale-Hubbell.
Can a Lawyer Help?
When the government sends you a notice and tells you that it intends to take your land, it can be a devastating experience. You may wonder how you will rebuild from the condemnation and whether the government truly has a claim to your land. In these situations, you need an attorney on your side.
A Lee County eminent domain lawyer from Marrs, Ellis & Hodge, LLP can protect your rights during this process. He or she can advocate for your highest possible compensation. If you suspect that the government does not have a valid claim to your land, your attorney can help you fight against the condemnation.
What Is Eminent Domain?
State and federal governments have the right to take private property for the public benefit. However, the government cannot simply kick someone off their land without assistance or payment. According to the Fifth Amendment of the U.S. Constitution, agencies may only exercise this power if they provide adequate compensation to the owner of that property.
Texas Eminent Domain Laws
Under Texas Property Code Chapter 21, government agencies can only take private land for a valid public use. When taking this land, the agency must pay the owner just compensation for the property and all damages to the property that the owner still holds.
Examples of valid public uses include the following.
- Schools and public universities
- Government and public buildings
- Power stations, including coal, natural gas, and nuclear
- Highways, toll roads, and streets
- Military basis
- Airports
- Bus stations
- Light rail and railroads
- Ports
- Dams or submerged land
- Water, oil, or gas pipelines
Eminent Domain vs. Condemnation
Eminent domain is the government’s authority to take private land for public use. Condemnation, on the other hand, is the process which agencies use to force owners to sell their land. Texas follows a two-phase litigation process when it comes to condemnation.
First, you will attend a Special Commissioners’ Hearing where three commissioners will determine how much the government should pay. If your case does not settle, your case will enter litigation in front of a jury.
Call a Lee County Eminent Domain Attorney Today
If you are facing the condemnation of your property, you need an attorney on your side. The Lee County eminent domain attorneys at Marrs, Ellis & Hodge, LLP can fight for your rights as a property owner. Contact us today to schedule your free case consultation and discuss your legal options.