Eminent Domain

Eminent domain is the right of the government to force an involuntary conveyance of private property for the benefit of the public.

 

•The grantor must be paid a just compensation

•Condemnation is the act taking the real estate

•Eminent domain is the right – condemnation is the act

 

Eminent domain is the right of governments to acquire private property for public use. Condemnation is the act of acquiring private property for public use.  

 

Governments may condemn private property for roads, road widening, public parks, etc.  Part of a property can be condemned to gain an easement for a sewer line or water line, etc.

 

Generally, the right of eminent domain is the right of all governments and public utilities.

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