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Learn More about Eminent Domain . . .
• Read Barry Springer's article,When the Government Wants Your Property
• Eminent Domain Articles

IDOT Projects involving Possible Takings

Just Announced Illiana Expressway, to link Highway 55 in Illinois to Highway 65 in Indiana
Elgin-O'Hare Expressway
Route 159, Collinsville

CTA Projects involving Possible Takings

As a residential or commercial property owner, you should be aware that if you ever receive a notice that a federal, state or local government body intends to exercise its right of eminent domain against your property, you should consult an attorney experienced in navigating the complexities of the condemnation process. You do have considerable rights, including the right to challenge the government's taking and monetary offer. The Law Offices of Barry A. Springer, P.C. can help you exercise these rights.

Changes in Eminent Domain Law

In 2005, the United State Supreme Court ruled in favor of wider powers of eminent domain. January 1, 2007, ushered in changes to the State of Illinois' eminent domain laws. These significant changes do not all favor the state government. In fact, under certain circumstances, these changes can favor the property owner. The updated law now includes:

• Changes to the burden of proof. The burden of proof that the government must meet to demonstrate that the taking of property is necessary has been tightened under certain circumstances.

• The government's obligation to pay the landowner's attorney's fees is now allowed in very specific circumstances.

• Under certain circumstances, there are consequences—to the government—of a jury award that is higher than a settlement offer made before trial.

• The government now has more obligation to pay relocation expenses.

• The date as of which just compensation is evaluated can be changed from the date the case was filed to the trial date, under certain circumstances.

Learn more about Barry A. Springer, P.C.'s Eminent Domain practice.

As an Illinois eminent domain authority, Mr. Springer is an often-cited source for the Chicago media on this complex government process. He has appeared on WTTW-Chicago's program Chicago Tonight to explain changes in Illinois' eminent domain law. Crain's Chicago Business also quoted Mr. Springer in an article pertaining federal eminent domain activity in the City of Chicago.

Barry A. Springer, P.C. represents the interests of residential and commercial property owners and tenants throughout the state of Illinois, including Cook County, DuPage County, McHenry County, Kane County, Kendall County, Lake County, Kankakee County, and Will County. Mr. Springer also represents property owners in Wisconsin, Michigan and Indiana, including Lake County, Porter County, Newton County, La Porte County, Jasper County, St. Joseph County, Elkhart County, Benton County and White County.