Messer Fort | Eminent Domian & Chapter 54 Litigator

Clear Career Professionals•Frisco, TX

1d•Onsite

About The Position

Messer Fort is seeking a litigator to lead eminent domain and Chapter 54 municipal enforcement litigation for its client cities. The role involves managing an eminent domain docket from pre-suit acquisition through special commissioners hearings and trial, as well as handling Chapter 54 municipal enforcement litigation and other government litigation. Candidates from either the condemnor or landowner side are welcome, provided they possess the required procedural and valuation experience. Texas licensure and Texas land use experience are mandatory.

Requirements

Juris Doctor from an accredited law school and a Texas law license in good standing.
Texas licensure is required at hire.
Substantial eminent domain litigation experience in Texas, on either the condemnor or the landowner side.
Experience handling special commissioners hearings and the post-award litigation phase.
Demonstrated courtroom and deposition experience, first chair or heavy second chair.

Nice To Haves

Experience representing condemning authorities such as cities, counties, TxDOT, or utilities.
Jury trial experience in condemnation or other real property litigation.
Experience cross examining and preparing valuation experts.
Exposure to municipal ordinance enforcement, nuisance abatement, or other Chapter 54 litigation.
Appellate experience in condemnation matters.

Responsibilities

Prosecuting eminent domain cases for cities under Chapter 21 of the Texas Property Code, from pre-suit acquisition through special commissioners hearings, objections, and trial in county or district court.
Managing statutory compliance, including bona fide offer requirements, Landowner's Bill of Rights notices, and the procedural framework that protects a city's judgment from challenge.
Working with appraisers, engineers, and other experts on market value, damages to the remainder, and highest and best use disputes.
Negotiating settlements, trying cases to special commissioners and juries, and handling mediation.
Handling civil enforcement suits under Subchapter B, Chapter 54 of the Texas Local Government Code, including substandard structure, health and safety, and land use ordinance enforcement actions.
Advising city staff on acquisition strategy, project schedules, and possession timing for capital projects.