Ag Law In The Field

Eminent domain is a hot topic currently for landowners across the state.  From various planned highways, to oil and gas pipelines, to water pipeline projects, to the high speed rail, many landowners are facing the potential taking of their private property pursuant to the use of eminent domain.   My guest today is Luke Ellis, a partner at the JMEH Law Firm in Austin.  Luke went to law school at the University of Texas and focuses his practice entirely on representing property owners negotiating easements and facing eminent domain.  He also teaches as an adjunct professor at the University of Texas College of Law. We discuss the most common types of eminent domain cases facing landowners, which entities have eminent domain power, analyzing whether a project has eminent domain power, negotiation tips, and valuation considerations.  We also chat about hiring an attorney and how firms generally charge to represent a landowner on an eminent domain proceeding. Not surprisingly, when asked what law he would like to