Businesses impacted by the government’s taking of private property for public use are represented by Schwabe.

Overview

When the government sets its sights on our clients’ property, Schwabe lawyers are there to help.

Fighting for the interests of landowners

Rapid growth in the Pacific Northwest has resulted in many new public works projects such as local road or highway widening and extensions, mass transit systems, urban renewal, parks and open spaces, schools, and sewer and utility lines. When the government uses its power of eminent domain to take, or “condemn,” your property for such a project, it must provide you just compensation. Schwabe’s lawyers work with our clients to establish the value of their property and seek just compensation.

Simplifying the process

With more than 50 years of experience, our team understands the business disruption and high stakes involved in the condemnation process. We take the worry off your shoulders by handling every step—from evaluating your position before the right-of-way agents or government appraisers arrive, to negotiating with government authorities, to aggressively litigating cases and appeals where necessary. At each stage, we keep our clients fully informed and work with them to seek the best possible resolution.

Leaders in condemnation and eminent domain

Schwabe’s condemnation lawyers are the only lawyers in Oregon recognized by the Owners Counsel of America as advocates for private property owners in the face of eminent domain. We have made history with landmark cases such as Dolan v. City of Tigard, and defended the rights of Pacific Northwest property owners in hundreds of other cases. Our lawyers speak nationally on eminent domain and condemnation trial tactics, and author influential publications on the topic.

Drawing on Schwabe’s deep experience and resources in land use, tax and environmental law, we provide creative strategies and a full range of condemnation and eminent domain services.