Your Eminent Domain Lawyer in Lexington, NC
If you’ve received notice that your land may be taken through something called “eminent domain,” you’re not alone—and you’re not powerless. At Lewis & Keller Injury Lawyers, we help property owners in Lexington and surrounding areas fight for full and fair compensation when facing land condemnation. You don’t have to accept the government’s first offer—and you don’t have to navigate this alone. Contact us today for a free consultation with an eminent domain lawyer in Lexington, NC.
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Table of Contents
What Is Eminent Domain?
Eminent domain is the government’s legal right to take private land for public use—whether it’s for road construction, utility lines, or public buildings. While the government has this right, they’re also legally required to provide just compensation. Too often, property owners are left short-changed.
How Is Eminent Domain Different from Condemnation?
While eminent domain is the right to take private property for public use, condemnation is the process the government uses to do that. So, eminent domain is the power, and condemnation is how they use it.
PUT AN AWARD-WINNING FIRM ON YOUR SIDE
Lewis & Keller Injury Lawyers is a recognized Best Law Firm in Eminent Domain and Condemnation Law, as well as Personal Injury Litigation-Plainitffs by U.S. News and World Report. The firm has also been given an AV rating from Martindale-Hubbell.
Founding partner Mike Lewis has procured the title of one of the Best Lawyers in America for personal injury litigation and eminent domain, and was also distinguished as a North Carolina Super Lawyer in personal injury. These accolades wouldn’t have been possible without the hard work of all of the attorneys at Lewis & Keller Injury Lawyers and their clients who placed their trust in them.
Your Rights as a Property Owner in North Carolina
Under North Carolina law, you have the right to:
- Negotiate for greater compensation.
- Hire an attorney to protect your interests.
- Request an independent appraisal of your property’s value.
In some cases, you may even be able to challenge the government’s taking of your property. If there is no way to prevent the government from seizing your property, you don’t have to accept what the condemning agency offers you. Our job is to maximize your compensation and protect your legal rights from start to finish. Consult with one of our Lexington eminent domain lawyers, and we’ll help you evaluate your options and protect your rights.
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How Do You Fight Eminent Domain?
Fighting eminent domain starts with taking clear, strategic steps to protect your property rights and financial interests. Here’s how to do it:
1. Don’t Sign Anything Without Legal Review
The first thing you should do when you receive a condemnation notice or offer is pause. Do not sign any paperwork or agreements, and don’t accept payment until a lawyer has reviewed it. Signing too early could limit your rights.
2. Hire an Experienced Eminent Domain Attorney
An attorney who understands North Carolina eminent domain law can help you determine if the taking is legal and, more importantly, if the compensation is fair. They’ll also handle communications with the condemning authority.
3. Get an Independent Appraisal
The government’s offer is based on their appraisal, which may undervalue your property. Your attorney can connect you with a certified, independent appraiser to establish the true market value of your land.
4. Evaluate Damages Beyond the Land Itself
If only part of your property is taken, you may still be owed compensation for damages to the remainder, such as reduced access, visibility, or utility. A good lawyer will help you calculate this accurately.
5. Challenge the Taking (When Appropriate)
In rare cases, you may be able to fight the taking itself, such as when the project is not for a legitimate public use or when the agency hasn’t followed proper legal procedures.
6. Negotiate or Litigate for Fair Compensation
Most cases don’t go to trial, but strong legal representation allows you to negotiate from a position of power. If a fair deal isn’t possible, your lawyer can take the case to court to pursue full compensation.
Our Results Speak For themselves
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7000000
Motorcycle accident resulting in paralysis.
$
3000000
Auto accident resulting in post traumatic stress disorder.
$
1393000
Workplace accident resulting in a traumatic brain injury.
Eminent Domain Projects Affecting Lexington, NC Residents
Several projects may impact property owners in Lexington and Davidson County, including:
- U.S. 64 widening project
- NC DOT corridor improvements
- Utility expansions for water, gas, or power infrastructure
our Lexington Eminent Domain attorneys
FAQs About Eminent Domain in Lexington, NC
How much is my property worth?
The government or condemning agency will make an initial offer based on its own appraisal—but that’s rarely the full story. Your property may be worth much more depending on:
- Market value based on comparable properties.
- Income potential if it’s a rental or commercial property.
- Loss of access, visibility, or development potential.
- Value of structures, crops, or fixtures on the land.
At Lewis & Keller Injury Lawyers, we work with independent appraisers to determine your land’s true value, not just what the government wants to pay.
Can I refuse eminent domain taking?
Sometimes, but not always. The government has broad authority to take property for legitimate public use, but the process must follow strict legal procedures.
You may be able to challenge the taking if:
- It’s not truly for public use.
- The process was not properly followed.
- The taking is excessive or unjustified.
Even if the taking is lawful, you still have the right to fight for maximum compensation. We’ll advise you on whether the taking can be challenged, or how to negotiate the best outcome.
How long does a condemnation or eminent domain case take?
It depends on the complexity of the case and whether you contest the taking or just the compensation. On average:
- Negotiated settlements can take a few months.
- Litigated cases may take 6–18 months, especially if they go to trial.
- Appeals or disputed takings can extend the process further.
The earlier you involve an attorney, the more likely we can resolve things efficiently while still protecting your rights.
What should I not do when pursuing an eminent domain case?
Avoid these common mistakes:
- Don’t accept the first offer without legal review—it’s almost always low.
- Don’t sign anything until you understand your rights.
- Don’t rely on the condemning agency’s appraisal as the final word.
- Don’t delay—missing deadlines could cost you your case.
Let us review your notice or offer letter before you respond. One wrong step could limit your compensation or rights.
Are eminent domain cases hard to win?
That depends on how you define winning in your case.
Is your goal to:
- Stop the taking altogether? That’s difficult but possible in narrow circumstances.
- Win more money? Absolutely—we regularly secure significantly higher compensation than the initial offer.
The government is not incentivized to offer you full value upfront. With help from an experienced eminent domain lawyer in Lexington, you can win a better outcome, often without even going to trial.
How Lewis & Keller Injury Lawyers Can Help You Fight for Fair Compensation
We’re not just here to fill out paperwork—we’re here to fight for you. Our team has decades of experience handling condemnation cases throughout Davidson County and across North Carolina.
Our eminent domain lawyers in Lexington can:
- Assess whether the taking is legal or challengeable.
- Work with expert appraisers and engineers to value your land properly.
- Negotiate with the government or utility company for a higher offer.
- Represent you in court, if needed, to pursue full compensation.
Whether you’re a homeowner, farmer, or business owner in Lexington, Lewis & Keller Injury Lawyers is ready to champion your case. We’ll be with you all along the way to fight for every dollar you’re potentially owed. Contact us today to take the first step.
