Whenever a large number of families begin flocking to new communities, it’s inevitable to encounter a few growing pains. Growing populations demand more infrastructure, and commercial properties near the existing city center are often no longer large enough to effectively serve their original purpose. But what happens if you own property in an area targeted for condemnation?
Ferstl Valuation Services has been offering trusted real estate appraisals in Little Rock since 1967, and we’re also certified appraisers in Louisiana, Tennessee, and Oklahoma. JT Ferstl, MAI, is an Arkansas-bar licensed attorney, and our services also include expert testimony, trial preparation, exhibit preparation, cross-examination, and rebuttal testimony. Here are a few of the most common questions we hear about eminent domain proceedings, and we’re always a phone call away if you don’t see the answer to your specific question below!
What agencies can condemn my property? The Fifth Amendment of the U.S. Constitution enables government agencies to seize private property for “public use” or public works projects such as roads, bridges, or other infrastructure projects. Third-party agencies can also condemn properties while completing municipal projects on the government’s behalf.
What are my civil rights if my property is condemned? The Fifth Amendment mandates that property owners are paid “just compensation” when their property is taken for public use. If your property is condemned and you don’t believe you’re being compensated fairly, you have the right to dispute the government’s valuation in court.
What is the purpose of expert witness testimony? Expert witnesses are expected to formulate an expert witness report that both the plaintiff and defendant will see. They might also be called to testify under oath. The court will expect your witness to deliver a true and impartial opinion, even if the findings don’t necessarily support your side of the case. Expert witnesses can only speak only to their area of expertise as instructed, and their credibility hinges on their impartiality. The expert witness cannot act as your advocate or negotiator, but you can and should hire someone to act in that role.
If you have any additional questions about expert witness testimony or Little Rock real estate appraisal services, contact us online or at 501-375-1439.
