Eminent domain refers to the state or federal government’s power to appropriate private property for public use in exchange for just compensation. It can also be legislatively delegated to municipalities or even to private persons or corporations that are exercising the functions of public character. Eminent domain is most commonly used for infrastructure projects or road expansion, but the government can always condemn homes or commercial buildings as it sees fit. But The Fifth Amendment of the U.S. Constitution guarantees your right to just compensation, and our team at Ferstl Valuation Services is here to help you protect your civil rights when your case goes to court.
We’ve been offering trusted real estate appraisals in Little Rock since 1967, and we’re also certified appraisers in Louisiana, Tennessee, and Oklahoma. If your property is located in a targeted area, contact us right away so we can help you evaluate your options. We have the experience that buyers, sellers, and lenders can rely on, and we’re always happy to provide an independent expert opinion of any commercial or residential property’s fair market value. But it doesn’t stop there! We’re also Arkansas Bar licensed attorneys uniquely qualified to act as real estate expert witnesses in the most technical and complex of cases.
Our services include expert testimony, trial preparation, exhibit preparation, cross-examination, and rebuttal testimony. If you choose to dispute the government’s valuation, we’ll ensure you’re fully informed and prepared. We can also assist you with estate planning, divorce proceedings, property tax settlements, and state and gift tax returns. The expert witness cannot act as your advocate or negotiator, but you can and should hire someone to act in that role.
Expert witnesses speak only to their area of expertise as instructed and formulate reports that both the plaintiff and defendant will see during discovery. An expert witness’ credibility hinges on his or her impartiality, and 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.
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.