Homeowners and landowners
Owners of homes, farms, and rental property affected by a public project.
Property Rights
Condemnation & Eminent Domain
Biggs Law Firm represents North Carolina property owners in all aspects of land condemnation. Our goal is to help you get a fair price when the government, a utility, or another entity takes your property for public use.
Overview
What is eminent domain?
Eminent domain is the power that the government, utility companies, airports, school districts, and certain other entities use to take private property for public use. North Carolina law requires that property owners receive just compensation when their property is taken.
If you receive a notice or are contacted by a right-of-way agent, talk with an attorney as soon as possible. If you do not respond correctly and on time, you may lose your right to demand a higher value for your property.
01
A notice that your property will be acquired
02
Contact from a right-of-way agent
03
An offer you believe is too low
04
A road, utility, or other project affecting your land
Our Approach
How we help property owners
In a consultation, we explain the whole process, what the government can and cannot do when taking your property, and what to realistically expect for timing.
We act as your liaison with the right-of-way agent, review appraisals, and work with private appraisers and other professionals to counter an offer that undervalues your property. Once an agreement is reached, we handle the paperwork to make sure it is accurate.
Who We Help
Who we represent
Businesses and organizations
Businesses, churches, and other property owners whose land or operations are affected.
Our Services
Areas of condemnation practice
Not sure which service fits your situation? Contact us and we will help you sort it out.
Request A ConsultationRight-of-way agent communication
Handling communication with the right-of-way agent on your behalf.
Appraisal review
Reviewing the government's appraisal and identifying anything that does not fairly value your property.
Private appraiser and professional referrals
Bringing in private appraisers and other professionals to support a fair value.
Compensation negotiation
Negotiating the maximum fair price for your property.
Biggs Law Firm
Meet your attorney
Board Certified Specialist in Business and Consumer Bankruptcy Law.
Laurie B. BiggsFounding Partner
View Full BioCondemnationYour First Consultation
Preparing for Your Consultation
What to bring
Bring the notice or letter you received, any offer and appraisal, maps or surveys of your property, and contact information for the right-of-way agent. We will let you know if we need anything else.
Call 919-375-8040 to scheduleFAQ
Frequently asked questions
These answers are general information, not legal advice. Every situation is different, so talk with an attorney about yours.
When should I contact an attorney?
As soon as you receive a notice or are contacted by a right-of-way agent. There are deadlines for taking action, and missing them can affect your right to seek a higher value.
Do I have to accept the first offer?
No. You can challenge an offer you believe undervalues your property. We review the appraisal and can bring in private appraisers to support a higher value.
What types of property do you handle?
We handle all types of property in eminent domain cases, including homes, farms, businesses, rental property, and churches.
Did you receive a right-of-way, appraisal, or acquisition notice?
Schedule a consultation with one of our attorneys.