Eminent Domain in Florida: Protecting Property Owners’ Rights Since 1989

Both the United States and Florida Constitutions grant the government the authority to exercise eminent domain—the power to take private property for public use—provided that the property owner receives full and just compensation. Our team is passionate about protecting the rights of property owners and businesses in these matters.

LeRoux Law focuses exclusively on representing clients in eminent domain matters throughout Florida. As a statewide eminent domain law firm, we are dedicated to delivering expert legal representation along with the highest level of personalized service and attention.

For over 35 years, attorney John M. LeRoux has devoted his legal career solely to representing corporations, businesses, homeowners, and other landowners in Florida eminent domain and inverse condemnation actions. He has served as lead counsel in thousands of condemnation cases and brings extensive experience in negotiation, mediation, and trial practice on behalf of his clients.

Legal Fees and Costs in Eminent Domain Actions

Under Florida law, property owners have important protections when facing the potential loss of their property through the power of eminent domain. One of the most significant is that you are not responsible for paying your attorney’s fees and costs; the condemning authority (such as a government agency or utility) is legally required to cover those expenses. Specifically, Florida statutes mandate that public and quasi-public entities must pay:

• Your attorney’s fees
• Court costs
• Reasonable fees for expert witnesses, such as appraisers, engineers, and land planners

These costs are in addition to the full and just compensation you recover for your property.

Why Legal Representation Matters for Eminent Domain in Florida

Long before the time you receive first notice of the proposed taking, the condemning authority has already been working with attorneys, engineers, surveyors, and appraisers. Retaining an experienced Florida eminent domain attorney can help you:

• Get ahead of the condemning authority and navigate complex legal processes with confidence
• Maximize the compensation you receive
• Minimize the impact of the project on your property or business

What LeRoux Law Can Do for You

At LeRoux Law, we focus on protecting the rights of property owners facing eminent domain actions across Florida. Led by John M. LeRoux, a distinguished Florida eminent domain attorney with over 35 years of experience, our firm brings deep legal knowledge, technical insight, and a results-driven approach to every case.

While the vast majority of our cases are on behalf of property owners, attorney John M. LeRoux has also represented condemning authorities in a select number of cases. That experience gives him a valuable perspective—insight into how the other side thinks and operates—which he now uses to better advocate for our clients.

Mr. LeRoux and our dedicated legal team provide comprehensive representation in all phases of eminent domain cases, including:

• Guiding You Through the Process
  From the initial notice through the final resolution, we help you understand your rights, obligations, and what to expect during each stage of the eminent domain process.
• Pre-Condemnation Planning
  We will counsel you on how to effectively plan for the pending condemnation and avoid hidden pitfalls.
• Developing a Customized Legal Strategy
  We work closely with you to tailor a legal strategy that aligns with your goals and protects your interests.
• Engaging Leading Experts—at No Cost to You
  We assemble a team of top-tier experts—appraisers, engineers, land planners, business valuation specialists, and more—all paid for by the condemning authority.
• Maximizing Your Compensation
  We take every step necessary to correctly assess and appraise your property and any improvements, negotiate aggressively, and ensure you receive the full and just compensation guaranteed by the Constitution.
• Representing You in Mediation and Court
  Whether through court-ordered mediation or jury trial, we fight for the compensation you deserve—every step of the way.
• Resolving Third-Party Claims
  We handle claims from mortgage holders, lienholders, tenants, or others with a potential interest in the compensation, ensuring a clear and equitable resolution.

For a deeper understanding of what to expect during this process, view our Overview of the Florida Eminent Domain Process.

Properties and Businesses We Represent

At LeRoux Law, we proudly represent a diverse range of clients throughout Florida in eminent domain proceedings—from individual homeowners to large corporations and small businesses.

Our team has handled complex, high-value condemnation cases involving nearly every type of property and business, including:

• Commercial and industrial sites
• Business properties across various industries: shopping centers, fast food restaurants, gas stations and convenience stores, automotive parts suppliers, professional offices, banks and credit unions, big box stores, hotels, warehouses, and more.
• Residential home sites
• Vacant land and agricultural properties
• Church and institutional properties
• Farms and rural acreage

Whether the case involves a single-family home or a multi-million-dollar commercial development, we provide every client with the same level of dedicated, professional, and detail-oriented representation.

Florida Eminent Domain FAQs

Can the government take my property even if I don’t agree to sell?

Yes, if it is for a legitimate public use, but you are entitled to fair compensation for the taking. An attorney can help you challenge the amount of compensation the government says is fair, and in limited instances, contest whether the taking qualifies as a legitimate public use.

Do I have to accept the government’s offer in an eminent domain case?

No. The government rarely leads with its best offer, and you have the right to challenge an offer. An experienced eminent domain attorney will retain appraisers and other experts to document your property’s value, negotiate on your behalf, and represent you at trial if necessary.

What is inverse condemnation?

Inverse condemnation is a compensable taking of private property that occurs through government conduct, but without formal use of the power of eminent domain and the condemnation process. For a more detailed explanation, please see our Inverse Condemnation page.

Contact a Florida Eminent Domain Attorney Today

If an eminent domain project is affecting your property or business, LeRoux Law is here to help you navigate the complex Florida eminent domain process with confidence and clarity.

Our proven track record—highlighted by actual case results and client testimonials—demonstrates our commitment to achieving the best possible outcomes for those we represent.

With offices in Tampa (primary location), Miami, and Fort Lauderdale, we provide dedicated legal representation for eminent domain and inverse condemnation cases throughout the entire state of Florida.

We welcome inquiries from prospective clients and referring professionals alike. Contact us today to discuss how we can assist you.