What is the eminent domain process?

Eminent domain is a process used by the state of Washington to acquire private property for public use. This process is regulated by the Washington Constitutional provisions, statutes, and court decisions. When the government needs to acquire land for public use, it must first determine if the specific use is for a legitimate public purpose. The acquisition is typically done through negotiations between the government and the owner of the land. The government must provide a fair compensation for the land to the owner. If the owner of the land does not agree to the terms, the government has the power to use eminent domain to seize the land. Before the land can be seized, the government must provide a notice of intent to the landowner and other affected parties. After the notice is provided, the government must provide a written offer to purchase the land. The offer should include the proposed amount and the method of payment. If the landowner does not accept the offer, the government must file a lawsuit and the court will determine the fair value of the property. The court will also provide an option to appeal the decision if the landowner is not satisfied with the outcome. Once the fair market value of the property has been determined, the government must provide final payment to the landowner. After payment is made, the land will be transferred from the owner to the government and the use of the property can be changed to serve a public purpose.

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What is the eminent domain process?

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