Reardon Anderson - June 2021

THE GOVERNMENT SEIZED MY PROPERTY — WHAT NOW?

WHAT HAPPENS NEXT? You’ll often be notified about the government’s intent by mail, although they may even send an agent to talk to you. Before an offer is made, they will assign an appraiser to visit the property. This person will assess its size, condition, zoning classification, location, accessibility, and current use.

Not many people find themselves in this situation, but when it does happen, it can be especially shocking. The Fifth Amendment allows the government to seize property if they compensate the land owner — but what happens then? And what if they offer a “fair” amount for compensation? WHAT IS THE ‘POWER OF EMINENT DOMAIN’?

Eminent domain entitles a government (whether federal, state, or local) to seize property if it’s for legitimate public use — typically to build new public amenities, such as airports — and they “justly compensate” the landowner. However, the U.S. Supreme Court has ruled that a government transfer of property from one private owner to another for the purpose of economic development is a “public use.”

Then, you’ll receive a copy of this appraisal. Review it carefully, because this plays a critical role in determining your compensation. Of course, you’ll still be in a good position to bargain for a higher price than initially offered, especially if you have neighbors whose homes are also needed for the project.

Ultimately, though, the best thing you can do is hire a lawyer to help you through the negotiating process. If the government comes knocking, give Reardon Anderson a call. Our team’s Land Use & Zoning expertise can help you get the highest compensation for your land possible!

This can give enough leeway for unjust dealings, but unfortunately, an eminent domain lawsuit is extremely difficult to win. Due to the complexity of these lawsuits, instead of fighting the sale itself, it may be best for property owners to invest their time in getting a fair price, as “just compensation.”

GRILLED CHICKEN SHAWARMA

INGREDIENTS

2 tbsp ground cumin

1 tsp ground black pepper

2 tbsp ground coriander

2 tsp allspice

2 tsp kosher salt

8 garlic cloves, minced

1/4 tsp cayenne pepper

6 tbsp olive oil

2 tsp turmeric

2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs

1 tsp ground ginger

DIRECTIONS

1. To create marinade, whisk all spices with the garlic and olive oil in a medium bowl. 2. Add chicken to the bowl, coat well with marinade, cover, and let sit in the fridge for at least 20 minutes — or up to 48 hours. Strain off excess marinade before cooking. 3. Preheat grill to medium-high heat. Grill thighs for 10–12 minutes on each side, or until a meat thermometer reads 165 F.

4. Serve with rice, vegetables, or pita bread with tzatziki.

Inspired by FeastingAtHome.com

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