Eminent Domain

Learn about the definition for this legal term.

What is Eminent Domain?

Refers to the power of the government to take private property and convert it into public use. The Fifth Amendment provides that the government may only exercise this power if just compensation is paid to the property owners.

Further Reading

For more detailed information, see our related Constitutional Law terms:

Stephanie Bagnall

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Stephanie Bagnall

Licensed Attorney and Legal Researcher

Stephanie Bagnall is a Georgia-licensed attorney and legal researcher with experience in accessibility law, compliance, employment law, and legal writing. She helps develop and review BarPrepHero's Legal Terms content for clarity, accuracy, and usefulness to bar exam students.

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