BLOG: Condemnation Law
HCIA v. Mariana Properties – App Div Affirms Taking for Road Project
The Appellate Division of the NJ Superior Court recently affirmed a trial court oral opinion by recently elevated and former Hudson County Assignment Judge Jeffrey Jablonski. The full opinion is available here a2686-22 HCIA Case. The property owner’s counsel argued that the case should be dismissed because the condemnor failed to: 1) conduct bona fide... Read More
Right of Entry vs. Taking: What Property Owners Must Know?
In exercising their right of entry, government entities must carefully navigate property owners’ constitutional protections. While the power of eminent domain allows the government to acquire private property for public use with just compensation, the preliminary stages of this process often raise complex legal questions. As experienced property tax lawyers, we frequently see cases where... Read More
How Societal Bias Shapes Eminent Domain Decisions
The societal bias inherent in eminent domain practices has become increasingly apparent as studies reveal its disproportionate impact on vulnerable communities across New Jersey and nationwide. The government’s power to acquire private property, while essential for public infrastructure development, has given rise to projects ranging from railroads and highways to schools, hospitals, and parks. As... Read More
A Comprehensive Guide to Eminent Domain Just Compensation
In an eminent domain case, when a governmental agency or other condemning authority takes private property, the property owner is constitutionally entitled to receive eminent domain just compensation for the taking. This refers to the amount of money that will make the owner whole and indemnify them for the loss of the property. Frequently, just... Read More
Eminent Domain in a Nutshell
The definition of eminent domain encompasses a powerful legal doctrine that allows governments to acquire private property for public use, often sparking controversy and concern among property owners. This constitutional authority, while intended to serve the greater good, can sometimes be misused, leading to examples of eminent domain abuse that have shaped legal precedents and... Read More
App Div Affirms Redevelopment of 615 River Road Edgewater Property
On August 13, 2024, the Appellate Division affirmed denial of a prerogative writ action that challenged the designation of a former Hess oil terminal on the Hudson River as “an area in need of redevelopment.” 2024-8-13 SJ 660 App Div. The decision appears to be the end of years of litigation over the redevelopment of... Read More
Police Power vs. Eminent Domain: Key Differences in Real Estate
Understanding the distinction between the government’s police power and the power of eminent domain is crucial. These terms, often misunderstood, play significant roles in property law. Police power refers to the government’s authority to regulate behavior and enforce order within its territory to ensure the public’s health, safety, morals, and general welfare. In contrast, eminent... Read More
10 Essential Questions to Ask Your Eminent Domain Attorney
When faced with the complexities of property rights, consulting an experienced eminent domain attorney is crucial for navigating the legal landscape effectively. Eminent domain is the government’s inherent power to “take” private property for public use, often leaving property owners feeling overwhelmed or confused. This blog focuses on the key questions you should ask when hiring... Read More
North Carolina Map Act Temporary Takings – Rental Value Not the Metric?!
When reading our colleague Robert Thomas’ excellent post on a recent Nort Carolina Map Act case, it sounded vaguely familiar. Recollection refreshed! Nine years ago(!), I blogged about the case that found the recording of a right-of-way map amounted to a taking… entitling owner to just compensation. In the Kirby v. NCDOT Case, the Supreme... Read More
Inverse Condemnation vs Eminent Domain: What New Jersey Property Owners Need to Know
Understanding the differences between inverse condemnation and eminent domain is crucial for property owners, especially in New Jersey. Inverse condemnation vs. eminent domain involves distinct legal processes and implications. This blog post will delve into these differences, providing insights into how each impacts property rights and what property owners in New Jersey need to know.... Read More
