What is the timeline of the eminent domain process?

The timeline of the eminent domain process in Texas follows a legal process that requires several steps. First, the government or a company that seeks to acquire property must file a Petition for Condemnation. The Petition provides notice to the property owner that the government or company is seeking to acquire the property through eminent domain. Next, a court hearing is held, where both parties appear and the court will decide whether the property is needed for a public purpose, such as a road or bridge, or for the benefit of a private company. Following this hearing, the judge will issue a ruling, known as an Order of Possession, that grants the government or company the right to possess the property. At this stage, the property owners must be compensated with a “just compensation” from the government. Finally, the court will issue a Final Order of Condemnation, which is the official decree that transfers ownership of the property to the government or company. This order is the official end of the condemnation process. In Texas, property owners can challenge the condemnation process in court and may be able to receive more compensation. The entire process typically takes between six months to one year, depending on the complexity of the case.

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