Condemnation

Under the state and federal constitutions, the government may take private property in order to use it for a public purpose. The government's right to condemn private property for a public purpose is known as the right of "eminent domain."

A private citizen has rights in a condemnation proceeding. The government may not take private property without paying just compensation. If an agreement cannot be reached with the government, a citizen is entitled to a trial to determine the fair market value of the property that has been taken and any consequential damages arising from the condemnation. The attorneys at Smith & Turley represent private citizens and businesses in hearings and trials to recover just compensation for property taken in condemnation proceedings. For more information from the Missouri Bar Association on eminent domain and condemnation law, click here.