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For business owners, commercial property is often an asset you worked hard to secure. Then, you’ve put continuous work into maintaining and improving it. Unfortunately, these privately owned properties may be subject to eminent domain laws, meaning the government can acquire them for public use, including for the construction of pipelines, highways, buildings, and much more. DAS Law Group can explain what SC commercial property owners need to know about pipeline eminent domain.
Understanding Eminent Domain Laws in SC
From July 1, 2023, to June 30, 2024, there were 292 cases of condemnation filed across South Carolina. From July 1, 2024, to June 30, 2025, there were 393 cases of condemnation filed within the state. This is a nearly 35 percent increase from the previous year’s report.
Land condemnation is another term for eminent domain, a legal process through which local and federal government entities can seize privately owned property for public use. A common reason for eminent domain acquisition is to develop public utilities, such as pipelines, as well as to expand means of public transportation, like highways or bridges.
However, the government must fulfill certain requirements for condemnation to be lawful. These include the following:
- The owner must be allowed due process.
- The land acquisition must be for a public use or purpose.
- The property owner must be provided with just compensation.
However, one thing property owners should know about eminent domain is that condemning authorities are often not fair when offering compensatory settlements. That’s why it is strongly advised that you work with a qualified legal professional. They can verify that you are adequately compensated for your seized land.
Why You Should Hire an Eminent Domain Lawyer
As a commercial property owner in South Carolina, there are numerous reasons why you should hire an eminent domain lawyer. The state’s eminent domain laws are complicated to navigate, especially for those who aren’t familiar with the expectations and processes involved, including what may be considered “just compensation” for a parcel of land. An attorney can work with you through every stage, protecting your rights as a landowner and advocating for proper compensation.
If you are in search of a qualified and capable South Carolina eminent domain attorney, look no further than the dedicated professionals at DAS Law Group. Our team of lawyers has more than 100 years of combined legal experience that can benefit your case through a tailored approach.
An eminent domain case in South Carolina will be processed in civil court as opposed to a criminal court setting. The specific legal venue can vary, depending on where the property is located. For example, cases in the Rock Hill area are most likely to be processed at the York County Court of Common Pleas, which is part of the state’s 16th Judicial Circuit. The Clerk of Court’s office is located at the county’s Moss Justice Center, at 1675 York Highway, York, SC 29745.
Contact an Eminent Domain Lawyer Today
The team of professionals at DAS Law Group can guide you through the eminent domain process from beginning to end. Don’t hesitate; reach out to us today to schedule a meeting with a knowledgeable attorney.
