Texas Landowner Representation

Oklahoma Eminent Domain & Condemnation Attorneys

Dawson & Sodd provides knowledgeable representation for Oklahoma landowners facing property condemnation for public and private projects.

Discuss Your Oklahoma Case – Free Consult

Eminent Domain Representation for Oklahoma Property Owners

Property owners across Oklahoma may encounter eminent domain when their land is needed for public projects such as highway expansions, utility infrastructure, pipeline development, or other initiatives deemed to serve a public purpose. Understanding your rights and the condemnation process in Oklahoma is crucial when facing a potential taking.

While Dawson & Sodd is a Texas-based law firm, Partner Clint Schumacher is licensed to practice law in Oklahoma and has experience handling condemnation matters in the state. Our firm is committed to extending our landowner advocacy to property owners in Oklahoma, leveraging our deep understanding of eminent domain principles and negotiation strategies.

Understanding Condemnation and Your Rights in Oklahoma

Both the United States Constitution and the Oklahoma Constitution grant the government the power of eminent domain – the authority to take private property for public use. “Condemnation” is the legal process used to exercise this power. Oklahoma law provides specific protections for landowners involved in this process.

Key Rights for Oklahoma Property Owners

  • You are entitled to receive just compensation if your property is taken for public use.
  • Your property can only be taken for a public purpose as defined by Oklahoma law.
  • Your property can only be taken by a governmental entity or a private entity specifically authorized by Oklahoma law to do so.
  • The entity must notify you that it intends to take your property.
  • The entity proposing to take your property must make a bona fide effort to negotiate with you to purchase the property before filing a lawsuit to condemn it (this generally involves a good-faith offer).
  • You have the right to hire an appraiser or other professionals to determine the value of your property and assist in any condemnation proceeding.
  • You have the right to hire an attorney to negotiate with the condemning entity and represent you in any legal proceedings.
  • Before your property is condemned (typically after a lawsuit is filed), you are entitled to a copy of the commissioners’ report, which assesses the damages and just compensation.
  • If you are unsatisfied with the compensation determined by the commissioners, or if you question whether the taking was proper, you generally have the right to demand a jury trial or review by the district court judge. Decisions may also be appealed. Strict filing deadlines apply to these rights.

Common Condemnation Issues in Oklahoma

Property owners in Oklahoma may encounter various condemnation projects, including:

  • Energy Infrastructure: Pipeline easements for oil, natural gas, and related products, given Oklahoma’s significant energy sector.
  • Transportation Projects: Highway and turnpike expansions and improvements by the Oklahoma Department of Transportation (ODOT) or the Oklahoma Turnpike Authority (OTA).
  • Utility Projects: Easements for electrical transmission lines, water pipelines, and other public utility infrastructure.
  • Public Works & Facilities: Projects by municipalities, counties, or other state agencies.
  • Impacts on Agricultural or Rural Properties: Many Oklahoma condemnations affect farms, ranches, and rural land, raising unique valuation and damage considerations.

How Dawson & Sodd Assists Oklahoma Landowners

Led by Partner Clint Schumacher, who is licensed in Oklahoma, Dawson & Sodd offers representation to Oklahoma property owners facing eminent domain by:

  • Providing thorough case evaluations and explaining your rights under Oklahoma law.
  • Leveraging Clint Schumacher’s litigation experience in Oklahoma courts.
  • Analyzing offers from condemning authorities and advising on negotiation strategies.
  • Working with Oklahoma-based appraisers and other professionals when necessary to determine full and fair compensation.
  • Guiding you through the Oklahoma condemnation process, including negotiations, commissioners’ hearings, and potential court proceedings.
  • Drawing upon the firm’s broader decades of experience in eminent domain to inform strategies for Oklahoma cases.

Our goal is to ensure Oklahoma landowners receive the same dedicated advocacy and pursuit of just compensation that we provide to all our clients.

Contact Our Team to
Discuss Your Oklahoma Case

If your property in Oklahoma is affected by eminent domain, or if you have received a notice of condemnation, contact Dawson & Sodd to discuss your situation with an attorney licensed to practice in Oklahoma. We offer a free, confidential consultation to review your case and explain your options.

Request a Free Consultation
(903) 872 – 8181