Wheaton, IL Eminent Domain Litigation Lawyers

Experienced and Skilled Condemnation Attorneys in DuPage County

Eminent domain is the process by which a public entity compels the sale or use of private property for a necessary public purpose, in exchange for reasonable compensation. In many cases, private land is taken for public use, such as to build a new road or expand an existing road. There are other instances, however, when another private party (such as a utility company or real estate developer) wants the land, and the government deems it to be "for the public good."

At the Wheaton law firm of Schmidt & Barbrow, PC, we have several decades of combined eminent domain litigation experience. Our attorneys have been involved in the prosecution and defense of eminent domain actions, and we have an in-depth understanding of the process. We provide skilled counsel to private property owners and government entities for all matters related to eminent domain, condemnation, and land valuation. If you have received notice of a condemnation action against your property, you need strong legal counsel to help navigate the complexities of the process. Our lawyers provide personalized service to our clients, working closely with them to secure a favorable resolution.

The Eminent Domain Process in Illinois

When a government entity decides to take possession of a piece of property for the public good, the property is usually appraised, and an offer is made to the owner. At this point, the property owner can either accept the offer, or if they believe the offer is too low, negotiate with the public entity.

Before proceeding with negotiations, it is best for the property owner to have an experienced attorney involved to evaluate the offer, obtain an appraisal to determine the real value of the property, and craft an effective negotiating strategy. If the owner and public entity are able to agree on a fair price, the case is settled. If no settlement is reached, the government entity initiates eminent domain proceedings in court. If the parties are still unable to settle, the case goes to a jury trial to determine just compensation.

Eminent domain is a complicated proceeding, and in many cases, the parties involved are not able to settle on a fair price for the property. For this reason, it is important to work with an attorney that has extensive knowledge of the process. For a personalized consultation with one of our Illinois eminent domain litigation lawyers, contact us today at 630-690-0100. From our offices in Wheaton, Schmidt & Barbrow, PC provides skilled counsel, advice and legal representation for clients in DuPage County, Cook County, Kane County, Will County, Kendall County, McHenry County, and across Northern Illinois.