Otten Johnson represents landowners and condemning authorities throughout Colorado, particularly in large and complex eminent domain matters. For landowners, an eminent domain proceeding is rarely welcomed news. It can disrupt a business, complicate the management of a real estate asset, and put a landowner in front of a process few navigate more than once. We work with clients in urban, rural, and mountain communities, advising from pre-condemnation planning through trial.
We also represent landowners in inverse condemnation, regulatory takings, and private takings matters.
How we help
Pre-condemnation planning
Long before any court filing, the steps a landowner takes can shape what comes next. We work with clients on pre-condemnation positioning, helping them prepare for an eventual settlement.
Reviewing and challenging the taking
Not every taking is legitimate. We review the public purpose behind the condemnation and the authority of the condemning body.
Trial and just compensation
When a case proceeds, the work shifts to building the record for just compensation. Our trial lawyers have represented clients in many of the largest condemnation actions in Colorado history, including cases tried to verdicts before juries and commissions. Our matters have ranged from highway widening and transportation expansion projects, to water and gas pipelines, to open space and recreational acquisitions to drainage improvements. We work alongside a network of consultants in land use, planning, engineering, construction, water law, geology, economic development, and valuation to develop each side of the case.
Eminent domain is a specialized practice, and our team is active in the broader conversation around it. Our lawyers speak regularly at industry events on land use, trial techniques, and other issues specific to condemnation work.
