Spesia & Taylor Partner John Spesia’s expertise in the area of utility and pipeline eminent domain litigation was recognized when he was invited to be a featured speaker at the Annual Meeting of the Appraisal Institute, a gathering of real estate appraisers from around the country who assemble to learn about recent developments impacting their profession. Former Appraisal Institute President Joseph Magdziarz said, “Given John’s extensive ... Read More

Under the Eminent Domain Act (“Act”) a utility company who receives a certificate or finding of public convenience and necessity from the Illinois Commerce Commission enjoys a rebuttable presumption that “acquisition of that property [being condemned] is (i) primarily for the benefit, use, or enjoyment of the public and (ii) necessary for a public purpose.” 735 ILCS 30/5-5-5(c). This article will briefly discuss the recent decisions from the ... Read More

The Fourth District Appellate Court approved just compensation in 21 eminent domain cases totaling $357,500 for 54.12 acres of permanent pipeline easement. An energy company represented by Spesia & Taylor filed condemnation complaints in McLean County. The energy company moved to expedite the proceedings by filing an injunction seeking immediate access across the properties. Ten months after the complaints were filed, the trial court granted ... Read More