What is the purpose of an eminent domain or condemnation trial?
Usually the main purpose of an eminent domain or condemnation trial is to determine “just compensation” due the owner of the property for the property or property rights that the government has acquired. In other words, the trial is to determine what amount of money is due the property owner for their property. Just compensation is defined as the fair cash market value of the property acquired by the government. 16. How is the fair market value of property determined? The fair market value of property is determined by the evidence. Fair market value of real estate is almost always an “opinion.” Therefore, there market value is determined by the opinions of value that come from the witnesses who testify at trial. 17. Who are the witnesses at trial? Not everyone is allowed to give their opinion of fair market value. In order for a witness to give their opinion of fair market value at trial, they must have some special qualifications. They can be an expert real estate appraiser, or a lay
