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Every eminent domain situation is different. Pick the description that fits what is happening to you, and the rest of this website will follow from there.
Learn what an eminent domain notice may mean and what information to review.
Explore Next Steps Situation 02Understand what may happen when all or part of a property is sought for a public project.
Understand the Process Situation 03Explore how property valuation and compensation may be considered.
Understand the Offer Situation 04Learn about questions and considerations when property owners disagree with a proposed valuation.
Explore Your OptionsNot sure yet
If none of the four descriptions fits, work along the six stages below. Most California acquisitions pass through all of them in order.
An agency studies a project and identifies the parcels it needs.
The agency contacts the owner and asks permission to enter and inspect.
An appraiser retained by the agency values the property and any damages.
The agency makes a written offer of its full appraised value, with a written summary.
The parties negotiate. If they do not agree, the agency holds a hearing and may file.
The matter settles, or a judge or jury decides the amount of just compensation.
Property types
The questions that matter most change with the property.
Related resources
Next step
Find resources based on your property and the stage of the eminent domain process you are experiencing.