Eminent domain is the legal concept that gives the government the power to force the sale of private property when it is necessary for public use. This process may also be referred to as condemnation. Eminent domain requires the government, or a private company acting under the authority of the government, to follow a strict legal process to achieve a property sale and transfer. Failure to follow the process could have adverse legal consequences.
If you are involved in an eminent domain dispute, a Houston real estate litigation and dispute attorney can help you challenge improper takings and fight for fair compensation. Porter Law Firm has experience with all aspects of eminent domain and is ready to help you through the process today. Give us a call at (713) 621-0700 to schedule a consultation and let us help you.
Reasons to Hire Porter Law Firm
At Porter Law Firm, our attorneys are experienced in all aspects of real estate law – including eminent domain. Whether you are being subjected to condemnation proceedings or you need to force the sale of certain property, our attorneys have the experience to help. Some reasons clients choose us include:
- Our experience: We have been helping clients in the Houston area with all their real estate needs since 2009
- Our approach: We offer a personalized and hands-on approach to representation, and we spend time with each client getting to know them and their business
- Our results: Clients trust us because we know how to get results, and we can put together a strategy to help you get the best outcome for your situation
If you need an eminent domain attorney in Houston, contact Porter Law Firm today. Our experienced team is ready to go to work for you.
Why Do You Need an Eminent Domain Attorney?
Eminent domain situations can become complicated very quickly. There may be arguments about whether the land is necessary for public use. Additionally, there are often intense debates about the value of the property in question. Having an experienced lawyer on your side can help make sure that you do not get taken advantage of during the process. Some ways a Houston eminent domain lawyer can help you are:
- Ensuring the required statutory process is followed
- Negotiating the value of the property in question to ensure fair compensation for the property
- Determining the fair value of damages to adjacent property
- Contesting whether the property is needed for public use
A Houston property tax appeal attorney can also assist if condemnation impacts your tax obligations or if you need to challenge property valuations after an eminent domain ruling. Regardless of which side of the proceedings you are on, Porter Law Firm has the experience you need to help protect your interests and get you a fair outcome. Let our experienced team get started helping you today.
The Basics of Eminent Domain Law
Eminent domain in Texas is governed by Chapter 21 of the Texas Property Code. These laws specify the entire process the government must follow when forcing the sale of private property through eminent domain. For instance, Texas requires that the government “make a bona fide offer to acquire the property from the property owner voluntarily.” If the owner refuses the offer, condemnation proceedings can be started.
Some common uses of land condemned by the government include:
- Public parks
- Highways
- Water or sewer infrastructure
- Oil, gas, or electricity infrastructure
- Buildings, such as schools or courthouses
Additionally, the Texas Comptroller’s Office provides guidance on property valuation and compensation standards. If you have questions about eminent domain, contact Porter Law Firm today. We will answer all your questions and guide you through this often difficult process.
Schedule a Consultation With an Eminent Domain Attorney Now
If you are involved in eminent domain or condemnation proceedings, contact Porter Law Firm. The sooner we get involved, the more likely we can help you smoothly work through all the issues that may arise. Our Houston eminent domain lawyers have the experience you need to help you through the details and complexities of eminent domain situations. Call us today or fill out the form to schedule a consultation and let us learn more about your situation.