Your Rights in Eminent Domain Cases

The power of eminent domain, also known as condemnation, is a constitutional power held by all levels of government, municipalities, and certain quasi-government organizations. It allows them to take privately owned land for public use. 

Condemnation proceedings can be intimidating, but with the help of our experienced attorneys, you can be sure that your rights are protected.

We believe everyone has the right to defend their property against eminent domain and to be paid just compensation for what the government can rightfully take. Our firm exists to ensure that you understand your rights and what options are available if your property is ever taken by eminent domain.

  1. The right to due process, including being provided notice and the opportunity to challenge the condemnation;
  2. The right to be compensated for your losses, including the fair market value of your property and any relocation costs;
  3. The right to challenge the amount of compensation offered by the government or other entity; and
  4. The right to seek higher compensation if the government has undervalued the taking and damage to your remaining property; 

By hiring our law firm, you can be sure you receive the highest quality legal advice and representation. We will work closely with you throughout the process to ensure you get the best possible outcome. Contact us now to get started!

A Virginia Eminent Domain Firm You Can Trust 

Waldo & Lyle understands the complexities and nuances of eminent domain law. Our team of experienced attorneys is knowledgeable about the ins and outs of this area, and we have a long track record of successfully representing clients in all types of condemnation proceedings.

From the first notice of a taking through negotiation or litigation, our attorneys’ goal is to secure fair compensation not only for the land taken but also for the impact on the property that remains.

Finally, we ensure that our clients have all the information and resources they need to understand their legal rights and options. Whether you’re an individual homeowner, farmer or a small or large business, our team at Waldo & Lyle can help you navigate the regulations of the Virginia eminent domain law.

Clients we’ve represented:

How Our Eminent Domain Attorneys in Virginia Can Help

Our eminent domain lawyers are committed to protecting you

We are dedicated to ensuring that our clients understand their legal rights and receive fair compensation when their property is taken by the government or a private entity. Our eminent domain attorneys provide thorough and effective legal representation in negotiations, litigation, and administrative proceedings. 

With decades of experience in the practice of Virginia eminent domain law, we are confident that we can provide you with the guidance and support you need.  

Joseph T. Waldo

Joe Waldo is the founding partner of Waldo & Lyle. Joe graduated from the University of North Carolina Chapel Hill and the College of William and Mary Marshall-Wythe School of Law. He has decades of experience representing property owners in eminent domain proceedings and private property rights defense.

Joshua E. Baker

Joshua E. Baker is the managing partner of Waldo & Lyle and focuses his practice on eminent domain law. He is committed to achieving just compensation for his clients when the government takes their property. In addition, he works to reform Virginia’s condemnation laws to better protect the rights of property owners.

Stephen J. Clarke

Stephen J. Clarke is a partner at Waldo & Lyle. His practice is focused on helping property owners defend themselves against eminent domain proceedings. He has dedicated his career to protecting the rights of property owners and has a proven track record of success helping numerous property owners keep their homes and businesses.

Brian G. Kunze

As a partner at Waldo & Lyle, Brian G. Kunze focuses his practice on representing property owners in eminent domain proceedings and defending private property rights. Brian graduated from Old Dominion University and Duquesne University School of Law. Brian works tirelessly to ensure his clients are treated fairly throughout the condemnation process.

Blake A. Willis

Blake Willis is a passionate advocate for private property rights who deeply appreciates the connection between the land and the families who care for it. Since joining Waldo & Lyle, he has devoted his practice to protecting the property rights of all Virginians.

Joseph L. Lyle, Jr

Joseph L. Lyle, Jr. was a highly experienced eminent domain lawyer, founding Waldo & Lyle. He had an impressive record of success in state and federal courts, arguing over twenty cases in the Supreme Court of Virginia. He regularly achieved significant victories for property owners in the areas of condemnation and eminent domain law.

Our Approach to Eminent Domain Cases

Here is our four-step process to defend your property rights in Virginia.

Consultation

Consultation

Schedule a consultation and our lawyers will analyze your case and evaluate the fair market value in eminent domain for the property being taken.

Preparation

Preparation

We stay at the forefront of possible eminent domain amendments, and will file responses on your behalf, including all responsive pleadings and motions, as needed.

Representation

Representation 

We represent our clients throughout the court condemnation proceedings in Virginia. This is done through various motions, arguments, depositions, the discovery process, mediation and trial.

Mediation & Trials

Mediation & Trials 

Upon engagement, we begin preparing your case for presentation to a condemnation jury.  Often, a case can be resolved without going to trial.

Featured Case Highlights


Jim and Janet Ramsey: Land Dispute Victory

Jim and Janet Ramsey stood up to the state’s abusive “bait-and-switch” tactics after their land was seized for a highway project. Their landmark victory in the Virginia Supreme Court set a powerful precedent protecting property owners from secret appraisal downgrades.

Dr Walter

Dr Walter Clayton: Eminent Domain Triumph

Dr. Walter Claytor fought back after Roanoke’s decades-long threat of condemnation devastated his family’s property and legacy in Gainsboro. His courtroom victory set a new precedent in Virginia, ensuring governments are held accountable for redevelopment harms.


Ray Cartwright: Exposed Hidden Appraisals

Ray Cartwright stood firm after the state offered unfair compensation for seizing his farmland and denied access to key appraisal records. His Virginia Supreme Court victory forced transparency in eminent domain cases and secured just compensation—10x the original offer.

Wanda Richards

Wanda Richards: Courtroom Victory

Wanda Richards stood up to the state after it seized her store’s parking lot, making her business unsustainable. Her courtroom victory exposed how Virginia’s condemnation laws unfairly pressured owners to settle and sparked long-overdue reforms.

Frequently Asked Questions

Eminent domain is the government’s power to take private property for public use—like roads, schools, or utilities—so long as the owner receives fair compensation.

You can fight for fair and full compensation. However, you cannot stop the government from taking land for legitimate public use.

The government must show the project serves a valid public purpose and provide just compensation. It also has to follow due process and cannot seize property arbitrarily.

It’s most often used in infrastructure projects like highways, railways, pipelines, power lines, and redevelopment efforts that require private property.

By working with an experienced eminent domain attorney, you can ensure property is properly valued, that damages to what remains are accounted for, and that you receive the maximum compensation allowed.

Stand Up For Your Rights, Choose Waldo & Lyle

With Waldo & Lyle on your side, you can rest assured that your rights are protected, and you’re getting the best possible outcome for your case. Here are more reasons to choose us:

Experts in Eminent Domain

Our lawyers have years of experience in eminent domain and only represent property owners.

Proven Record

We have won millions of dollars for our clients.

Specialization

We specialize in complex eminent domain and property rights cases in Virginia.

Professional Services

Waldo & Lyle has an extensive list of satisfied clients who can attest to our exceptional services.

Facing unfair takings? Let’s talk about it.

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