The concept of eminent domain is one that many people don’t know much about unless they’re served documents about it. Eminent domain is what the government can use to claim personal property for public use. The catch to this is that the property owner has to receive...
Eminent Domain
How fast does eminent domain happen?
Eminent domain is a power that the government has to take private property for public use. For instance, maybe you have a family business that has been on the same small street since your father opened that business twenty years before you were born. You have no...
Can I stop an eminent domain purchase?
As a property owner, a compulsory purchase order under eminent domain laws could destroy your dreams for the future and your memories of the past. Whether your property is your home, farm, or business, losing it will be devastating. Rather than assuming that a...
Will eminent domain play a role in Ford’s new development?
Ford Motor Company wants to invest $5.6 billion into a West Tennessee factory that will build electric vehicles and the batteries that run them. Now Tennessee lawmakers have approved a $884 million package deal that should clear the way. But controversy abounds, and...
When did eminent domain begin?
If you’re facing the loss of your property through eminent domain, you may feel that it is very unfair. Hasn’t the United States always been a country that valued personal property? Isn’t that one of the founding principles? Does that mean that eminent domain is just...
You are entitled to eminent domain damages
It is common knowledge that the government can acquire your private property for its use. However, the Fifth Amendment says that the government must provide just compensation for the property acquired, but that may not be enough. Ideally, you want your financial...
What you should know about eminent domain for “public use”
Most Americans assume that once they buy property, it's theirs forever as long as they continue to pay property taxes on it. That's not necessarily the case. The Fifth Amendment of the U.S. Constitution contains a "Takings Clause" that allows the government to seize...
Common misconceptions about eminent domain
Being a property owner in Tennessee can be a source of pride and prestige. When faced with losing a property to eminent domain, it can feel like one is under attack. Some properties contain homes, businesses or contain generations of memories. When losing a property,...
What is “just compensation” for my property?
Eminent domain is a touchy subject for many people in Tennessee. The idea of the government coming in and taking your family home and property to make way for “progress”, is never a pleasant thought. Yes, we need to build highways, bridges, and other infrastructure...
Can I prevent the government from taking my property for a road?
Though most people never think about it, the construction of new roads can be controversial. Much of the land needed for these roads is privately owned. The government may seek to use eminent domain to take this land from the rightful owners and use it for...