Most people who buy a home and the land it sits on expect that it will be theirs for as long as they choose to reside there. They may choose to pass that home and land along to children or other family members once they pass. It's a very common scenario, but for some residents of Charleston County, it may not be possible due to a highway expansion. Once the expansion starts, these residents could actually lose their land. And while you wouldn't think such an action would be legal in America, truth is often stranger than fiction.
The newly proposed expansion on Highway 41 will expand the highway to two lanes, increasing it to a total of four lanes on most of the roadway and from two to three lanes near the Phillips Community. The project would also start construction of Laurel Hill Parkway - a two-lane road that intersects through the outskirts of Laurel Hill County Park. For the Phillips Community, which sits adjacent to the highway, it could mean the loss of residents' homes and land that have been in their families for generations.
So, what can people like those in the Phillips Community do? They don't want to lose their homes or bear the burden of significantly more traffic around them. On their own, the options can be dour. But with the help of eminent domain attorneys Near Me Lexington, SC, these families can receive the just compensation they deserve.
Remember that when you purchase or are given a plot of land, your property rights aren't as absolute as you may think. According to the United States Constitution, the government has the authority to take your property under specific circumstances. Essentially, your property rights are not absolute.
What's interesting is that the government's ability to take your property is actually stated in the Constitution. Even though the Constitution states that "private property shall not be taken for public use without just compensation," in essence, this means the government can take your property if the intended use is valid and they compensate you fairly. The Supreme Court upheld this view in 1876, interpreting that the government had this power based on the Constitution. Eminent domain was frequently used during the construction of the nation's railroad system, often without sufficient limitations on the government.
Unfortunately, many South Carolina residents end up being on the wrong end of the cost-benefit analysis when it comes to fair compensation. That's why, if the government is trying to take your land, it's so important to get in touch with eminent domain attorneys Near Me Lexington, SC, as soon as possible. That way, you have someone by your side for any legal proceedings or disputes. At Lauren Taylor Law, we have a proven track record of achieving positive outcomes for our clients in cases where the government has failed to fulfill its legal responsibilities.
There are typically two different ways that the government may take your property. Those include:
In both scenarios, you could be forced into litigation in order to protect your rights, even though you had no plans on doing so.
When the government wants to acquire your land, they will typically begin by making a formal offer to buy your property. At this point, you may have the opportunity to negotiate with them. If you decide that selling your property is the best option, it's important to work towards reaching an agreement with the government on the sale price. This isn't always a straightforward process because the government may not be willing to offer you a fair amount.
To determine the price of your property, the government will have their appraiser assess the value of the property. This appraiser functions much like an adjuster for an insurance company, many of whom offer lowball pricing. You should know that you have the right to hire your own appraiser to determine an independent valuation. This is often the best course of action if you're considering selling to the government.
If you choose not to sell to the government, they may proceed by filing a lawsuit to initiate the condemnation process. At this point, you can challenge the taking itself by working with eminent domain attorneys Near Me Lexington, SC. You can also ask the court to determine the fair market value of the property if the government's valuation is lower than what you believe is fair.
Given the history of these cases, you can never trust the government to act fairly. Why? Because local officials often have interests in such matters, and your rights are getting in their way. Sometimes, the only viable route you have is to lawyer up and fight the case in court.
When the government wants to acquire your land, they will typically begin by making a formal offer to buy your property. At this point, you may have the opportunity to negotiate with them. If you decide that selling your property is the best option, it's important to work towards reaching an agreement with the government on the sale price. This isn't always a straightforward process because the government may not be willing to offer you a fair amount.
To determine the price of your property, the government will have their appraiser assess the value of the property. This appraiser functions much like an adjuster for an insurance company, many of whom offer lowball pricing. You should know that you have the right to hire your own appraiser to determine an independent valuation. This is often the best course of action if you're considering selling to the government.
If you choose not to sell to the government, they may proceed by filing a lawsuit to initiate the condemnation process. At this point, you can challenge the taking itself by working with eminent domain attorneys Near Me Lexington, SC. You can also ask the court to determine the fair market value of the property if the government's valuation is lower than what you believe is fair.
While the government can use its power to take your land, there are limits on its ability to do so. Namely:
As such, there are two reasons why you can sue the government as part of an eminent domain case:
Given the history of these cases, you can never trust the government to act fairly. Why? Because local officials often have interests in such matters, and your rights are getting in their way. Sometimes, the only viable route you have is to lawyer up and fight the case in court.
Landowners commonly contest whether the taking is genuinely for public use. There are constraints on the government's actions and the reasons for which they can seize your land. The interpretation of these terms by the courts often favors the government. "Public use" does not simply mean that your property would be open to the general public. Instead, the term is more akin to "for the benefit of the public."
Historically, the government expropriated private lands for projects such as bridges and highways. Numerous legal battles arose during the period when the nation was constructing its railroad system. In these instances, the courts typically interpreted "public use" more broadly.
Some of the most common reasons why government landtaking is upheld include the building of structures like:
These are the more "traditional" uses of eminent domain, where the public use would be less in question. However, the law also permits certain utilities to wield the power of eminent domain. For instance, in a recent case in South Carolina, Dominion Energy was granted the authority to acquire homes in order to construct an energy pipeline.
Regrettably, governments have historically tended to misuse this authority, and some courts have even condoned such actions. As an example, courts in Toledo, Ohio, allowed 83 homes to be taken from residents in order to construct a manufacturing plant for Chrysler, which said the plant would create jobs for the public.
If the government is trying to take your land, you should never give up on your property. By working with eminent domain attorneys Near Me Lexington, SC, you may be able to stop them by challenging the taking itself. You can also challenge the purpose of the taking and argue that the reason for "public use" is really for private use.
Many people worry about the government taking over their entire piece of land. However, in some cases, the government may not need all your property and might not want to compensate you for it. They may only require a portion of your land.
In such instances, the government not only has to pay you for the part of the land they are taking, but they also have to compensate for the decreased value of the remaining land that you still own. Additionally, the government may seek to obtain an easement on your land through eminent domain. This easement could be for utilities or access to another area. Once again, the government must compensate you for the land taken and for the reduction in value of the rest of your property.
In essence, fair market value represents the amount a willing buyer would offer to a seller for their property. While this concept seems straightforward, applying fair market value in reality can be quite challenging. In many instances, negotiating with the government may be necessary to receive proper compensation for your land. Just like any negotiator, the government typically begins with a low offer and anticipates a counteroffer from you to reach a mutual agreement. Rarely does the government present its best offer right from the start.
Several valuations may be considered to determine your property's fair market value:
The amount of income your property could have produced
Comparison of sales to other similar properties in the area that were recently sold (there could be disagreements pertaining to what is comparable)
The amount of money it would cost to replace your property (and the structures built on it) minus depreciation
In reality, during a trial, both you and the government would have valuation experts testify. First, you'd have to choose the relevant valuation, which the government might dispute. Then, you'd need to apply the appropriate valuation method. There might be a significant difference between your numbers and the government's.
However, even if you couldn't prevent the seizure of the property, many have successfully challenged the government's valuation of their property. Property owners have compelled the government to pay more, and our team of eminent domain attorneys Near Me Lexington, SC, has represented many of them in the legal process over the years.
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Typically, you'll receive notice regarding the potential acquisition of your property through a letter. But if you're like the residents of the Phillips Community, you might have already heard murmurs that something might happen to your land. If you suspect or find out that the government plans to take your land through eminent domain, you need the help of seasoned eminent domain attorneys Near Me Lexington, SC, right away.
The truth is that the government can be just as challenging to deal with as an insurance company. Despite your constitutional rights, they might try to conceal information or offer far less compensation than your property is worth.
In an eminent domain lawsuit, you're essentially challenging the government. While some courts might show some level of deference to the government, they are not given free rein to do as they please. It's within your rights to stand up and contest the government's actions if they violate your rights. But to fight back effectively, your best bet is to work with an eminent domain lawyer from Lauren Taylor Law.
Your attorney will assess the best legal approach for your case, which could involve suing the government or vigorously defending against their lawsuit. You could also negotiate compensation, either before or after the case goes to court.
If you receive notice that your property is being targeted for eminent domain action, also known as condemnation, it's important to seek advice from an eminent domain attorney. Many people won't reach out to a lawyer when dealing with this kind of legal issue because they:
Unfortunately, these assumptions are rarely, if ever, true. In fact, you may actually be more vulnerable and at risk than you originally thought. This misunderstanding illustrates exactly why you should enlist the services of a reputable eminent domain attorney. With the assistance of a legal expert who is well-versed in South Carolina eminent domain law, property owners can safeguard their rights and secure maximum compensation.
Here are the top three ways an eminent domain lawyer can help:
It's important to keep in mind that the initial offer from the government for your property is often the lowest amount they think they can get away with. This rarely represents the full and fair compensation you deserve. An attorney has the expertise and resources to ensure that you receive proper compensation for the value of your property, including relocation expenses and more.
In some instances, an eminent domain attorney may be able to secure a higher amount than what the government is proposing. The eminent domain lawyers at Lauren Taylor Law are dedicated to safeguarding your rights and protecting your property
Government agencies are not permitted to simply take any property they desire. According to the 5th Amendment, they must prove that the condemnation is genuinely for public use and meets other specific criteria. You have the right to demand that the state fulfill these criteria before seizing your property. Plus, if only a portion of your property is necessary to complete the project, you have the right to safeguard the ownership of the remaining part of your property.
Eminent domain cases and their related laws can be quite intricate and overwhelming for the average property owner. You shouldn't be expected to grasp all the technical terms, and you certainly shouldn't be penalized for not fully understanding the process. That's why having an experienced eminent domain lawyer by your side is valuable on many levels. A skilled eminent domain attorney will assist you through each stage in plain language that you can grasp. With an eminent domain attorney advocating for you throughout your case to safeguard your rights, you stand a better chance of receiving the compensation you rightfully deserve.
If the government takes your property or prevents you from using it, you have the right to file a lawsuit. The law provides you with the opportunity to stand on equal ground with our government, allowing your lawyer to advocate for your rights in court.
At Lauren Taylor Law, our eminent domain lawyers step in so you don't get pushed around. Our goal is to fight the government on your behalf, so you get the compensation you deserve. Contact our office today to learn more about eminent domain in South Carolina and how our firm can help.
With a month to go before Election Day, candidates for three open seats on the Lexington 1 school board made their pitch to voters for what they would like to do for Lexington County’s largest school district.Campus security, classroom technology use and school board civility were among the topics candidates addressed at the forum Wednesday night at River Bluff High School.Rather than have all seven candidates who came to the forum line up on stage, students from River Bluff’s Center for Law and Global Policy guided...
With a month to go before Election Day, candidates for three open seats on the Lexington 1 school board made their pitch to voters for what they would like to do for Lexington County’s largest school district.
Campus security, classroom technology use and school board civility were among the topics candidates addressed at the forum Wednesday night at River Bluff High School.
Rather than have all seven candidates who came to the forum line up on stage, students from River Bluff’s Center for Law and Global Policy guided them from table to table where voters were waiting to talk to them in more informal conversations.
The format meant voters at one table heard from one candidate on one of a list of pre-selected subjects. When his subject was classroom funding challenges, candidate Jack Lundeen said the district would need help from the Legislature in meeting all its funding needs.
“Lexington County is at a disadvantage because the General Assembly looks at us like we’re a rich county,” he said. “I’m from Pelion. You think we’re rich?”
Tasked with speaking to school safety measures, Dana Homesley said the district needs to keep its buildings secure, but was reluctant to place metal detectors throughout the district, as some parents at her table suggested.
“I don’t want our schools to feel like prisons,” she said.
Shelton Yonce, one of three incumbents running for reelection to the board, said he wanted to strengthen communication between administrators and the needs of individual schools.
“I’ve suggested having the district office staff spend a week subbing in the classroom for teachers,” he told his table.
Current school board member Katie McCown spoke to one table on the pre-selected topic of “board accountability” when a board member’s conduct sparks controversy — a question likely inspired by McCown’s online comments about a Black History Month fashion show that sparked student protests and a lawsuit against the district.
McCown didn’t address that controversy directly, but said she was committed to voicing opinions she believes many of her constituents share.
“I feel like I was put into this position by the community, and there’s a desire for me to represent them,” she said. “I’m not a person who is going to be quiet. I’m going to say the hard thing,” although McCown stressed she could only speak as an individual and not for the board as a whole.
She did say that board members are required to behave with civility and questioned how much public officials should post on social media.
The growing use of technology and artificial intelligence in classrooms was often raised by parents as a concern, and candidates often agreed.
“I’m old school with my children. There’s no technology when they come home, not even on the weekend,” said Crystal Baker. She said she wasn’t opposed to using technology as an assistant to student learning, “but let’s put a couple more books on the table.”
Candidate Chris Shealy said he shares parents’ concerns about an overreliance on technology, and suggested there should be limits on the amount of time students work online.
“At home, my kids have an hour on the iPad and then it logs them off,” he said. But a one-size-fits-all policy may not be appropriate because “kids learn at different speeds,” he said.
All the questions for the forum were drawn up by River Bluff students, who also led the conversation at each table.
“We met last week to come up with the questions,” said Law Center student Justin Adams. “Our teacher, Mr. Burgess, gets all the candidates to commit, and then we worked to come up with the questions that made sense.”
The students got some assistance in putting together the program for the event.
“We were able to speak to two current school board members who are not up for reelection, so we could get insights into what the board does,” said student Renee Fox. “Then we divided into five groups to come up with certain topics for each round.”
Fox served as one of the facilitators who introduced a topic at each table and kept the conversation on track. She said it was slightly nerve-wracking to be leading a conversation between adults.
“I started off a little nervous, but I got comfortable as we went on,” she said. “For me personally, I had prepared the research questions, so I know what I was talking about, and I felt confident that we were all here to learn and meet our candidates.”
Candidates who took part in the event praised the way River Bluff’s students were able to carry it off.
“I feel like the district needs people to be engaged and involved with their schools, and for students to feel engaged,” said board member Chris Rice. “I love making a difference in the community... it’s not about right or left, it’s about what is the best way to represent the community.”
HARTFORD, Conn. – Hartford Athletic announced on Friday the addition of forward Michael Adedokun on loan from fellow USL Championship club Lexington SC for the remainder of the 2026 season.Adedokun will be available for selection in Hartford’s contest against Phoenix Rising FC on Saturday night (10:30 p.m. ET | ESPN+).The Nigeria native arrives in Hartford after making 15 appearances for Lexington across all competitions in 2026, recording one assist. The 25-year-old previously recorded three goals ...
HARTFORD, Conn. – Hartford Athletic announced on Friday the addition of forward Michael Adedokun on loan from fellow USL Championship club Lexington SC for the remainder of the 2026 season.
Adedokun will be available for selection in Hartford’s contest against Phoenix Rising FC on Saturday night (10:30 p.m. ET | ESPN+).
The Nigeria native arrives in Hartford after making 15 appearances for Lexington across all competitions in 2026, recording one assist. The 25-year-old previously recorded three goals and one assist with LSC during the 2025 season, including a pair of goals in the USL Championship.
“Michael is a difference maker, a guy with a real chance to influence this league on a high level. I want to welcome him on behalf of our locker room at a difficult time for us in terms of availability,” said Hartford General Manager and Head Coach Brendan Burke. “He has a real chance to grab a jersey here and keep it. I also want to thank Bruce Mandell and the rest of our ownership group for continuing to give us all the tools that we need to chase trophies in Hartford. This is on us as a staff and great group of players to deliver results now.”
Prior to his debut with Lexington SC in 2025, Adedokun was selected 13th overall in the First Round of the Major League Soccer SuperDraft by CF Montréal before joining Lexington SC on loan. He was then acquired by LSC midway through the campaign via transfer.
Adedokun had previously starred at the collegiate level for Ohio State University, where he earned the 2024 MAC Hermann Trophy as the top player in NCAA Men’s Division I Soccer, recording eight goals and seven assists in 15 appearances as a senior for the Buckeyes.
TAMPA, Fla. – The USL Championship today announced that Lexington SC midfielder Aaron Molloy has been voted the USL Championship Player of the Month for July after recording a league-high four assists in five appearances across all competitions, helping Lexington move into the top half of the Western Conference standings.Acquired by Lexington for a league-record transfer fee from the Charleston Battery this offseason, Molloy has produced another standout campaign in the Championship. During July, he recorded a p...
TAMPA, Fla. – The USL Championship today announced that Lexington SC midfielder Aaron Molloy has been voted the USL Championship Player of the Month for July after recording a league-high four assists in five appearances across all competitions, helping Lexington move into the top half of the Western Conference standings.
Acquired by Lexington for a league-record transfer fee from the Charleston Battery this offseason, Molloy has produced another standout campaign in the Championship. During July, he recorded a pair of assists in Lexington’s 4-1 win away against current Players’ Shield leader the Tampa Bay Rowdies and another pair against Commonwealth Cup rival Louisville City FC in the Prinx Tires USL Cup group stage.
The Irish midfielder now leads Lexington with both four goals and five assists this regular season, while having notched seven assists across all competitions overall this campaign.
"I’m really grateful to be named Player of the Month,” said Molloy. “It’s a great individual honor, but I couldn’t have done it without my teammates, coaches, and everyone around the club who pushes me every day.
“We’ve put together a really good month as a team, and I think that’s the most important thing. I’m proud to represent Lexington SC, and hopefully we can keep building on this and have a really strong second half of the season.
“Thank you to everyone who voted and supported me. I really appreciate it.”
Molloy has been voted to the USL Championship All-League First Team in each of the past four seasons, earning plaudits as one of the league’s top central midfielders. Since the start of the 2022 season, he has recorded 50 goal contributions in regular season play, ranking tied for first with 32 assists alongside San Antonio FC’s Jorge Hernández.
The 29-year-old has also recorded a league-high 959 recoveries and 215 interceptions while winning 738 duels, ranking fifth in the league in that category, making Molloy one of the league’s top two-way performers all-time.
“Aaron brings the highest level of mentality and work rate in every training session and every game,” said Lexington Head Coach Masaki Hemmi. “He is a multiplier that makes everyone around him better. He is our captain and sets the standards for the team daily and leads by example. I’m happy for him to be receiving this recognition, and he is only getting started here in Lexington. He possesses the character that we look for in every Lexington player.”
Molloy earned 57% of a weighted poll that included the USL Championship Technical Committee, a national panel of independent media representing every USL market and an online fan vote held at USLChampionship.com. Louisville City FC’s Jansen Wilson finished second on 20% after recording four goals and one assist for LouCity in four appearances across all competitions.
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