Eminent Domain, also called Condemnation, is the power of the government to take private property. Condemnation is an awesome and little understood power. Until a persons property becomes subject to this power they are blissfully unaware of its existence. Yet, the power to acquire private property to construct highways, schools, and government buildings has always been an essential attribute of organized governments.

In Connecticut, the power of Eminent Domain, is given to state agencies, most notably the Department of Transportation, to allow them to acquire property for public purposes. Cities and towns are also given the power to accomplish a public purpose.

In recent years the law of Condemnation has been changing on the issue of what constitutes a public purpose. Once a government agency determines that certain private property should be acquired the courts provide a mechanism to question whether the stated purpose is truly and legally a "public purpose" in accordance with current law.

The Law Firm of Benson A. Snaider, PC id dedicated to protecting the property rights of individuals including securing maximum compensation, and relocation benefits for persons, businesses and corporations faced with the taking of their property by a government agency.

If you are currently facing Condemnation and you would like to learn your rights and entitlements, please contact us by phone, fax or email.

Benson A. Snaider, PC is the Connecticut Representative of Owners' Counsel of America.