Condemnation

Kelley Drye has significant experience representing condemning authorities as well as railroads and other private land owners in eminent domain matters and related litigation.  We have litigated issues ranging from the right to take to fair market value, relocation expenses, and just compensation on behalf of railroads, pipeline companies, and quasi-governmental entities.  Our extensive understanding of real-property damage models, and creative approach to the quantification of market and economic damages, gives our team a facility with condemnation matters and damages that can add tremendous value to railroad and transportation companies.

Eminent Domain

Kelley Drye attorneys represent condemning authorities and private land owners in significant eminent domain litigation.  We have evaluated and litigated the right to take private property and have developed unique and sophisticated damage models intended to accurately compensate for the losses that result from a condemnation proceeding.

Eminent domain is the power to take private property for public use by a state, municipality or private person or corporation authorized to exercise functions of public character.  Over the past several years, there is growing concern about how and when the power of eminent domain can be exercised.  Eminent domain law and legal procedures vary, sometimes significantly, between jurisdictions.  These issues require an understanding of several factors outside of the law, such as political, commercial and special interests that need to be investigated, evaluated and thoroughly understood when advising clients.  Each area, in turn, needs to be examined by counsel that is well versed in these issues and has the experience and insight to appreciate the implications that may result from certain actions.