James Bates Pope & Spivey

Eminent Domain

At James Bates, we have successfully represented both condemning authorities and landowners in numerous eminent domain and takings actions, and are prepared to help you navigate through these tumultuous waters.

The James Bates’ Eminent Domain practice group consists of a team of experienced lawyers and staff who have litigated the gamut of issues that often arise in this complex process — everything from “right-to-take” challenges to just compensation and regulatory taking claims.  Collectively, we have experience in all forums, from the city council chambers to the courtroom. We work for real world solutions and results.

The exercise of the power of eminent domain as established by the United States Constitution and the Georgia Constitution plays an integral and vital role in the development of our country and state’s infrastructure and in providing public services. The most common exercise of eminent domain powers is usually associated with and reserved for public ownership projects (e.g., hospitals, military bases, schools, parks, public housing, blight removal, etc.), public transportation projects (e.g., roads, airports, railroads, rail transit, courthouses, etc.), and for common carriers for public use (e.g., utilities, water, electricity, sewer, flood control facilities, parks, power transmission, etc.). With this power comes an enormous responsibility to ensure that such power is being exercised with responsibility, fairness, and professionalism. James Bates’ eminent domain practice group is committed to serve those ideals.

Eminent Domain Attorneys

Thomas W. Huyck
Duke R. Groover
William J. Sheppard
Scott Eric Anderson