The right of eminent domain, also known as condemnation, exists not only for state government (most frequently seen through the Department of Transportation) but is also possessed by local governments and is authorized for certain private entities in North Carolina such as utility companies.

Cauley Pridgen, P.A. has been involved in hundreds of North Carolina condemnation cases. We represent both private landowners and condemnors and our clients range from individuals and businesses to utility companies and municipalities. When governments or private condemnors such as power companies condemn land, property owners are entitled to ‘just compensation.’ Compensation must be based on the fair market value of the property, taking into account its highest and best use. While there are few reasons to prevent condemnation, a property owner can contest the amount of the initial offer and attempt to establish a higher value for the property.

The key to any condemnation case is ensuring that the condemnee is compensated appropriately.  We work with appraisers, engineers, surveyors and others to determine the true fair market value of the property taken. If you have been contacted by a government agency or utility company regarding their intention to take your property by condemnation, call us. We typically represent landowners on the basis of a percentage of the amount recovered. You do not pay an attorney fee unless the firm receives a recovery for you.