reglab/statecodes huggingface dataset:
2023 Code of Virginia › Title 25.1 - Eminent Domain › Chapter 2 - Condemnation Procedures › § 25.1-209. Notice of filing of petition

A. Upon the filing of a petition for condemnation, the petitioner shall give the owners 21 days' notice of the filing of such petition and of its intention to apply to the court to ascertain just compensation for the property to be taken or affected as a result of the taking and use by the petitioner of the property to be so acquired.
B. The notice, along with a copy of the petition, shall be served on the owners. In such notice, the petitioner shall give notice that an answer and grounds of defense shall be filed setting forth any objection or defense to the taking or damaging of his property or to the jurisdiction of the court to hear the case and to elect to proceed with either the appointment of commissioners or empanelment of a jury for the determination of such just compensation.
C. The notice may also include notice of the petitioner's application for the right of entry as provided in § 25.1-223, if such application is included in the petition as authorized by § 25.1-207.
D. A copy of the notice required to be served on the owners by this section also shall be served in the same manner upon any tenant entitled to participate in the proceeding pursuant to § 25.1-234, whose lease has been duly recorded or whose tenancy is actually known to the petitioner. However, a tenant so notified may participate in the proceeding only as permitted by § 25.1-234.
E. In addition to any other notice required to be served pursuant to this section, in any proceeding instituted by the Commissioner of Highways under this title or Title 33.2, a copy of the notice of the filing of the petition also shall be served, in the same manner as such notice is served upon owners, upon any person owning structures or improvements for which an outdoor advertising permit has been issued by the Commissioner of Highways pursuant to § 33.2-1208.
Code 1919, § 4365; Code 1950, § 25-10; 1962, c. 426, § 25-46.9; 1975, c. 189; 1991, c. 520; 2000, c. 1029; 2003, c. 940; 2006, c. 586; 2010, c. 835.
2023 Code of Virginia › Title 25.1 - Eminent Domain › Chapter 2 - Condemnation Procedures › § 25.1-210. Service of notice by order of publication; mailing copy of notice by publication

A. Upon the filing of an affidavit by a duly authorized officer, agent or attorney for the petitioner stating that he believes any owner cannot be personally served because after diligent inquiry within the Commonwealth such owner's place of residence cannot be ascertained or, if ascertained, that it is not within this Commonwealth, service of the notice may be made on such owner by an order of publication. Such order shall be published in a newspaper published in the county or city where the property or major portion thereof is located, or if there is no such newspaper then in a newspaper having a general circulation in such city or county, once a week for not less than two successive calendar weeks and shall be posted on the front door of the courthouse within 10 days after the entry of the order of publication. Unknown owners who may have an interest in the property may be served by order of publication in like manner addressed to "Unknown Owners." The clerk shall mail a copy of the notice by publication to any owner who cannot be personally served but whose place of residence is then known.
B. The provisions of this section and § 25.1-211 shall apply only to orders of publication in condemnation actions.
Code 1919, § 4365; Code 1950, § 25-11; 1962, c. 426, § 25-46.10; 1982, c. 384; 2003, c. 940.
2023 Code of Virginia › Title 25.1 - Eminent Domain › Chapter 2 - Condemnation Procedures › § 25.1-212. Personal service of notice on nonresident owner

Personal service of the notice of the filing of a petition may be made by any person, not a party to or otherwise interested in the subject matter in controversy, on a nonresident owner out of this Commonwealth. Such service shall have the same effect, and no other, as an order of publication duly executed, or the publication of notice under this chapter, as the case may be. In such case the return shall be made under oath, and shall show the time and place of such service, that the party serving the same is not a party to or otherwise interested in the subject matter in controversy, and that the person so served is a nonresident of this Commonwealth.
1962, c. 426, § 25-46.12; 2003, c. 940.
2023 Code of Virginia › Title 25.1 - Eminent Domain › Chapter 2 - Condemnation Procedures › § 25.1-213. Filing an answer and grounds of defense; election of commissioners or jury

Within 21 days of the service thereof any such owner who desires to assert any objection or defense to the taking or damaging of his property or to the jurisdiction of the court to hear the case, and to make his election to proceed with either the appointment of commissioners or the empanelment of a jury, shall file (i) his answer and grounds of defense designating the property in which he claims to be interested, (ii) the grounds of any objection or defense to the taking or damaging of his property or to the jurisdiction of the court to hear the case, and (iii) his election to proceed with either the appointment of commissioners or the empanelment of a jury for the determination of just compensation.
Code 1919, § 4365; Code 1950, § 25-10; 1962, c. 426, § 25-46.9; 1975, c. 189; 1991, c. 520; 2000, c. 1029; 2003, c. 940; 2006, c. 586; 2010, c. 835.
2023 Code of Virginia › Title 25.1 - Eminent Domain › Chapter 2 - Condemnation Procedures › § 25.1-214. Failure of owner to file answer and grounds of defense

A. The failure of any owner to file an answer and grounds of defense as provided in § 25.1-213 shall not preclude the owner from (i) appearing on the date set for the appointment of commissioners or the empanelment of a jury, (ii) presenting evidence as to valuation and damage, or (iii) sharing in the award of just compensation according to his interest therein or otherwise protecting his rights. However, such failure shall preclude the owner from any other defense by way of pleas in bar or otherwise, except that for good cause shown the time for filing such answer and grounds of defense may be extended by the court.
B. If the owner fails to file an answer and grounds of defense, or if the owner files an answer and grounds of defense that fails to elect to have the determination of just compensation made by either commissioners or a jury, then the petitioner may elect to have the issue of just compensation determined by either commissioners or a jury, or by the court as provided in § 25.1-220.
Code 1919, § 4365; Code 1950, § 25-10; 1962, c. 426, § 25-46.9; 1975, c. 189; 1991, c. 520; 2000, c. 1029; 2003, c. 940; 2006, c. 586; 2010, c. 835.
2023 Code of Virginia › Title 25.1 - Eminent Domain › Chapter 2 - Condemnation Procedures › § 25.1-215. No notice required where owner is a person under a disability; appointment of guardian ad litem

If any owner is a person under a disability and has no guardian, conservator or committee in this Commonwealth, (i) no notice need be issued for or served upon such owner and (ii) a guardian ad litem for such owner shall be appointed in the manner prescribed in § 8.01-9.
Code 1919, § 4365; Code 1950, § 25-11; 1962, c. 426, § 25-46.13; 1997, c. 801; 2003, c. 940.
2023 Code of Virginia › Title 25.1 - Eminent Domain › Chapter 2 - Condemnation Procedures › § 25.1-216. Amendments to pleadings

A. No amendments shall be made to the petition or other pleading after it is filed, except by leave of court.
B. Leave to amend for the addition of new parties and for other purposes shall be liberally granted in furtherance of the ends of justice.
C. In granting leave to amend, the court may make such provision for notice and opportunity to make response as the court deems reasonable and proper.
1962, c. 426, § 25-46.14; 2003, c. 940.
2023 Code of Virginia › Title 25.1 - Eminent Domain › Chapter 2 - Condemnation Procedures › § 25.1-217. Substitution of party where owner becomes incapable of defending

A. If an owner becomes incapable of defending because of death, insanity, conviction of felony, removal from office, or other cause, his successor in interest may be substituted as a party in his place. Substitution shall be made on motion of the successor or of any party to the proceedings.
B. If the successor does not make or consent to the motion, the party making the motion shall file it with the court and the procedure thereon and the service of notice of such motion, if any, shall be in whatever manner the court may require as reasonable and proper in the circumstances involved but in no event shall the period of time required for any notice be greater than that which is prescribed for the notice in § 25.1-209 or § 25.1-210.
1962, c. 426, § 25-46.15; 2003, c. 940.
2023 Code of Virginia › Title 25.1 - Eminent Domain › Chapter 2 - Condemnation Procedures › § 25.1-218. Intervention in proceedings

Any person not already a party to the proceedings whose property, or any interest or estate therein, is to be taken or damaged, or who claims that his other property, or any interest therein will be damaged as a result of the taking and use by the petitioner, may be made a party to the proceeding upon filing a petition for intervention by leave of court (i) at any time prior to the beginning of the trial of the issue of just compensation, or (ii) in the discretion of the court, at such other times during the pendency of the proceeding upon such terms and conditions as the court deems proper, considering all the circumstances at that time. Such a person intervening in the proceeding shall be permitted to assert any claim or defense then germane to the proceeding upon such terms and conditions as the court deems reasonable and proper.
Code 1919, § 4383; Code 1950, § 25-42; 1962, c. 426, § 25-46.16; 2003, c. 940.
2023 Code of Virginia › Title 25.1 - Eminent Domain › Chapter 2 - Condemnation Procedures › § 25.1-219. Pretrial settlement conference; determination of preliminary issues; fixing date of trial on issue of just compensation

A. The owner or the petitioner in any condemnation proceeding may request and, if requested, the court shall order a pretrial settlement conference. Such conference shall be conducted by a neutral third party, if available. Such conference may be requested at any time by either the owner or the petitioner. If requested, such conference shall be held within the 30 days preceding the scheduled trial date. If such a conference is ordered, the court shall order both parties to appear with counsel, if any, and the parties shall appear with settlement authority. All settlement conferences conducted pursuant to this provision shall be nonbinding. If settlement is not reached, the matter shall proceed to trial as set upon the docket.
B. At the hearing upon the petition and application for either the appointment of commissioners or the empanelment of a jury made in accordance with § 25.1-209, if no answer and grounds of defense has been filed objecting to the jurisdiction of the court to hear the case and to proceed with the appointment of commissioners or the empanelment of a jury, the court shall enter an order fixing a date for the trial of the issue of just compensation and stating that such issue shall be determined by a commission, by a jury or by the court, as provided in § 25.1-220. If any answer and grounds of defense has been filed objecting to the jurisdiction of the court, the court shall determine such issues or other matters in controversy, excepting the issue of just compensation or matters relating to the ownership of any land or other property or the interests of any party in such land or other property before fixing a date for the trial of the issue of just compensation.
C. If the court determines all such issues or other matters involving the jurisdiction of the court in favor of the petitioner, the court shall enter an order fixing a date for the trial of the issue of just compensation and stating that such issue shall be determined either by a commission, by a jury or by the court, as provided in § 25.1-220.
D. An order of the court in favor of the petitioner on any of the foregoing preliminary issues or matters shall not be a final order for purposes of appeal but an order against the petitioner on such issues or matters shall be a final order for purposes of appeal, if the petitioner so elects. If the order against the petitioner does not dismiss the petition, the petitioner may elect to proceed with the case without waiving any of its objections and exceptions to the rulings of the court.
E. At such hearing the court shall also determine whether the petitioner shall be granted a right of entry as provided in § 25.1-223.
1962, c. 426, § 25-46.17; 1991, c. 520; 2000, c. 1029; 2002, c. 272; 2003, c. 940; 2006, c. 586; 2010, c. 835.
2023 Code of Virginia › Title 25.1 - Eminent Domain › Chapter 2 - Condemnation Procedures › § 25.1-220. Who determines issue of just compensation

The issue of just compensation shall be determined by a commission or a jury, upon a timely election made by an owner as provided in § 25.1-213. However, by agreement of the petitioner and all the parties who are sui juris that have appeared or responded, or, if no owner upon proper notice has appeared or responded, or has filed an answer and grounds of defense that fails to elect to have the determination of just compensation made by either commissioners or a jury, then, upon motion of the petitioner, the issue of just compensation may be determined by the court.
1962, c. 426, § 25-46.19; 1984, c. 377; 1991, c. 520; 2000, c. 1029; 2003, c. 940; 2006, c. 586; 2010, c. 835.
2023 Code of Virginia › Title 25.1 - Eminent Domain › Chapter 2 - Condemnation Procedures › § 25.1-221. Consolidation of petitions for trial

Unless any party demands a separate hearing on the issue of just compensation, the court may consolidate for trial two or more petitions.
1972, c. 169, § 25-46.17:1; 2003, c. 940.
2023 Code of Virginia › Title 25.1 - Eminent Domain › Chapter 2 - Condemnation Procedures › § 25.1-222. Proceedings not to be delayed by claims with respect to ownership of property

No delay in the proceeding for the determination of just compensation shall be occasioned by the claims of the parties with respect to the ownership of any land or other property or to the interest therein of the respective parties. In such cases the court shall require the retention of the deposit of the award for the whole property, or the part in dispute, until the rights of the respective parties have been determined in the manner hereinafter provided in § 25.1-241; provided, however, the court shall permit any such claimants to intervene as parties to the proceedings as provided in § 25.1-218.
1962, c. 426, § 25-46.18; 2003, c. 940.
2023 Code of Virginia › Title 25.1 - Eminent Domain › Chapter 2 - Condemnation Procedures › § 25.1-223. Right to enter upon property

A. Unless otherwise provided by law, any petitioner may enter upon the property to be condemned at any time after the filing of its petition for condemnation, for the purpose of constructing its works or improvements thereon in the manner proposed by the petitioner upon approval of the petitioner's application for entry as provided in this article.
B. Notice of the petitioner's application for entry shall be served on the owners in the same manner as is provided in this chapter for service of notice of the filing of a petition.
Code 1919, § 4362; 1924, p. 60; Code 1950, §§ 25-3, 25-4; 1962, c. 426, § 25-46.8; 1977, c. 394; 1979, c. 494; 2003, c. 940.
2023 Code of Virginia › Title 25.1 - Eminent Domain › Chapter 2 - Condemnation Procedures › § 25.1-224. Conditions upon entry; bonding; withdrawal of share by owner

A. The court, after 21 days following service of the petitioner's application, and after a hearing thereon, may approve the petitioner's application if it finds that:
1. A public necessity or an essential public convenience requires such entry for such purposes;
2. An emergency exists justifying such entry before the time when just compensation can be determined and the amount so determined paid into court; and
3. The interests of the owners of such property will be adequately protected by (i) the payment into court for the benefit of the owners of the amount of the offer made in accordance with § 25.1-204 or (ii) if no offer is required by that section, by the payment into the court of the amount of a good faith estimate of the value of the property.
B. In addition, the court may require the petitioner to give a surety bond in an amount and with such surety as the court may determine.
C. Upon such findings and payment and the giving of such bond, if any is required, with surety in the office of the clerk or with the court, conditioned as required by law and to the effect that the petitioner and its surety or sureties are bound to the owners of the property to be taken or damaged to secure to each of them payment of just compensation therefor as finally determined in the condemnation proceedings, the petitioner shall have the right to enter and construct its works or improvements upon or through the property as described in its petition.
D. At any time after such payment into court, a party whose property or interest therein is to be taken or damaged may apply to the court for the withdrawal of his share thereof in the manner provided in § 25.1-243.
E. The clerk shall deposit the funds so paid to the credit of the court in an account of a type that bears interest.
F. At any time during the condemnation proceedings, if it appears necessary to do so in order to protect the owners of the property or estate or interest therein to be condemned and assure unto them the payment of just compensation to which they are entitled, the court may require the petitioner to give a new and additional bond in an amount and with sureties satisfactory to the court.
Code 1919, § 4362; 1924, p. 60; Code 1950, §§ 25-3, 25-4; 1962, c. 426, § 25-46.8; 1977, c. 394; 1979, c. 494; 2003, c. 940.
2023 Code of Virginia › Title 25.1 - Eminent Domain › Chapter 2 - Condemnation Procedures › § 25.1-225. Abandonment of proceedings after entry upon property

If the petitioner enters upon the property under this section and does any work thereon, or causes any injury or damage to such property, it shall not thereafter be entitled, without the consent of the owner, to abandon the proceedings for the condemnation thereof, but shall conduct the condemnation proceedings with reasonable dispatch to final judgment.
Code 1919, § 4362; 1924, p. 60; Code 1950, §§ 25-3, 25-4; 1962, c. 426, § 25-46.8; 1977, c. 394; 1979, c. 494; 2003, c. 940.
2023 Code of Virginia › Title 25.1 - Eminent Domain › Chapter 2 - Condemnation Procedures › § 25.1-227.1. Qualifications of commissioners

A. The provisions of this article shall apply in eminent domain proceedings in which the issue of just compensation is to be determined by a commission.
B. All commissioners shall be disinterested freeholders and residents of the county or city wherein the property or the greater portion of the property to be condemned is situated. No person shall serve as a commissioner for more than one full week within any three-month period, unless agreed to by the parties.
2010, c. 835.
2023 Code of Virginia › Title 25.1 - Eminent Domain › Chapter 2 - Condemnation Procedures › § 25.1-227.2. Empanelment of commissioners

A. The parties to the eminent domain proceeding may agree upon five or nine persons qualified to act as commissioners, as provided in subsection B of § 25.1-227.1.
B. If the parties cannot agree upon five or nine qualified persons to act as commissioners, then each party shall present to the court a list containing the names of at least eight qualified persons. If any party fails to submit such a list of names, the court may, in its discretion, submit such a list on such party's behalf.
C. From the lists submitted pursuant to subsection B, the court shall select the names of thirteen potential commissioners and at least two alternates. At least 30 days prior to their service, such persons shall be summoned to appear.
D. If nine qualified persons are selected, the petitioner and the owners shall each have two peremptory challenges and the remaining five shall serve as commissioners. If five qualified persons are agreed upon as provided in subsection A, they shall serve as commissioners.
E. If an owner has filed no answer to the petition, and the court finds that the owner is not represented by counsel, the court may, in its discretion, and subject to the right of the petitioner to challenge for cause, subpoena five persons who shall serve as commissioners.
F. Any three or more of the five commissioners may act.
G. In condemnation proceedings instituted by the Commissioner of Highways, a person owning structures or improvements for which an outdoor advertising permit has been issued by the Commissioner of Highways pursuant to § 33.2-1208 shall be deemed to be an "owner" for purposes of this section.
2010, c. 835; 2016, c. 265; 2018, c. 158.
2023 Code of Virginia › Title 25.1 - Eminent Domain › Chapter 2 - Condemnation Procedures › § 25.1-228. Qualification of jurors

A. The provisions of this article shall apply in eminent domain proceedings in which the issue of just compensation is to be determined by a jury.
B. Persons selected as condemnation jurors shall be residents of the county or city in which the property to be condemned, or the greater portion thereof, is situated. No person shall be eligible as a condemnation juror when he, or any person for him, solicits or requests a member of the jury commission to place his name on a list of condemnation jurors. All of the persons included on the list of condemnation jurors shall be freeholders of property within the jurisdiction.
Code 1919, §§ 4366, 4367; 1928, p. 334; 1948, p. 168; Code 1950, §§ 25-12, 25-16; 1962, c. 426, § 25-46.20; 1968, c. 535; 1973, c. 510; 1974, c. 625; 1975, c. 551; 1991, c. 520; 1993, c. 906; 1997, c. 58; 2000, c. 1029; 2003, c. 940; 2006, c. 586.
2023 Code of Virginia › Title 25.1 - Eminent Domain › Chapter 2 - Condemnation Procedures › § 25.1-229. Selection of jurors

A. Except as otherwise provided in this section, the provisions of Chapter 11 (§ 8.01-336 et seq.) of Title 8.01 shall apply to the selection of condemnation juries mutatis mutandis. While preserving the random selection process set forth in § 8.01-345, the jury commissioner shall determine the freeholder status of individuals randomly selected by reference to tax rolls or other reliable data the judge of the circuit court deems appropriate.
B. All of the acting jurors and all of the names drawn for alternate jurors shall be freeholders of property within the jurisdiction. On the day set for trial, jurors who appear shall be called to be sworn on their voir dire until a disinterested and impartial panel is obtained. A juror may be stricken for cause. From the impartial panel the judge shall randomly select 13 jurors. From the panel of 13 jurors each party shall have four peremptory strikes. The court may appoint alternate jurors. Five persons from a panel of not fewer than 13 jurors shall constitute a jury in a condemnation case. If fewer than seven jurors remain before the court prior to the exercise of peremptory strikes, the trial may proceed and be heard by less than five jurors provided the parties agree. However, no trial shall proceed with fewer than three jurors.
C. The conclusion of the jurors need not be unanimous, and a majority of the jurors may act in the name of the jury.
D. In condemnation proceedings instituted by the Commissioner of Highways, a person owning structures or improvements for which an outdoor advertising permit has been issued by the Commissioner of Highways pursuant to § 33.2-1208 shall be deemed to be an "owner" for purposes of this section.
Code 1919, §§ 4366, 4367; 1928, p. 334; 1948, p. 168; Code 1950, §§ 25-12, 25-16; 1962, c. 426, § 25-46.20; 1968, c. 535; 1973, c. 510; 1974, c. 625; 1975, c. 551; 1991, c. 520; 1993, c. 906; 1997, c. 58; 2000, c. 1029; 2003, c. 940; 2006, c. 586; 2007, cc. 450, 720.
2023 Code of Virginia › Title 25.1 - Eminent Domain › Chapter 2 - Condemnation Procedures › § 25.1-230. Measure of just compensation; oaths of members of body determining just compensation

A. The body determining just compensation shall ascertain (i) the value of the property to be taken and (ii) the damages, if any, that may accrue to the residue beyond the specific enhancement in value, if any, to such residue caused by the taking and public use of the property for which it is condemned. Such enhancement in value shall not be offset against the value of the property taken, and if such enhancement in value exceeds the damages, there shall be no recovery against the landowner for such excess.
In determining the market value of the property before the taking, the body determining just compensation may consider everything a buyer and seller in the marketplace would reasonably consider, but may not consider any increase or decrease in the fair market value of the property caused by the public use for which the property is being acquired, or by the likelihood that the property would be acquired for such public use, other than that due to physical deterioration within the reasonable control of the owner.
In determining the market value of the residue after the taking, the body determining just compensation may consider everything a buyer and seller in the marketplace would reasonably consider, including the public use for which the property is being acquired, but may not consider any general enhancement the residue experiences in common with surrounding properties as a result of the public use.
Nothing in this subsection shall make evidence of tax assessments admissible as proof of value in an eminent domain proceeding.
B. Before executing their duties, each member of the body determining just compensation shall take an oath before an officer authorized by the laws of the Commonwealth to administer an oath that he will faithfully and impartially ascertain the amount of just compensation to which a party is entitled.
Code 1919, §§ 4366, 4367; 1928, p. 334; 1948, p. 168; Code 1950, §§ 25-12, 25-16; 1962, c. 426, § 25-46.20; 1968, c. 535; 1973, c. 510; 1974, c. 625; 1975, c. 551; 1991, c. 520; 1993, c. 906; 1997, c. 58; 2000, c. 1029; 2003, c. 940; 2019, c. 788.
2023 Code of Virginia › Title 25.1 - Eminent Domain › Chapter 2 - Condemnation Procedures › § 25.1-231. View of property

The court shall direct the body determining just compensation, in the custody of the sheriff or sergeant or one of his deputies, to view the property described in the petition with the owner and the petitioner, or any representative of either party, and none other, unless otherwise directed by the court. Upon motion of either party, the judge shall accompany the body determining just compensation upon such view. Such view shall not be considered by the body determining just compensation as the sole evidence in the case.
Code 1919, §§ 4368, 4369; Code 1950, §§ 25-17, 25-18, 25-18.1; 1956, c. 563; 1962, c. 426, § 25-46.21; 1991, c. 520; 2000, c. 1029; 2003, c. 940.
2023 Code of Virginia › Title 25.1 - Eminent Domain › Chapter 2 - Condemnation Procedures › § 25.1-232. Testimony on issues; report on just compensation

A. Upon completion of the view, the court shall hear the testimony in open court on the issues joined.
B. When the body determining just compensation shall have arrived at its conclusion, it shall make its report in writing to the court.
Code 1919, §§ 4368, 4369; Code 1950, §§ 25-17, 25-18, 25-18.1; 1956, c. 563; 1962, c. 426, § 25-46.21; 1991, c. 520; 2000, c. 1029; 2003, c. 940.
2023 Code of Virginia › Title 25.1 - Eminent Domain › Chapter 2 - Condemnation Procedures › § 25.1-233. Confirmation of report; exceptions to report

A. The report of the body determining just compensation may be confirmed or set aside forthwith by the court.
B. However, when the report is so filed and before the court passes thereon, either party shall have the right to file written exceptions to the report, which shall be filed not later than 10 days after the rendering of the report by the body determining just compensation. The court shall have the same power over the reports of the body determining just compensation as it now has over verdicts of juries in civil actions.
C. Upon hearing of exceptions to the report the court shall not recall and question the members of the body determining just compensation as to the manner in which their report was determined unless there be an allegation in such written exceptions that fraud, collusion, corruption or improper conduct entered into the report. If such allegation is made, the judge shall summon the members of the body determining just compensation to appear and he alone shall question them concerning their actions. If the court be satisfied that fraud, collusion, corruption or improper conduct entered into the report of the body determining just compensation, the report shall be set aside and a new body to determine just compensation shall be empanelled to rehear the case.
D. If the court be satisfied that no such fraud, collusion, corruption or improper conduct entered into the report of the body determining just compensation, or no other cause exists that would justify setting aside or modifying a jury verdict in civil actions, the report shall be confirmed.
Code 1919, §§ 4368, 4369; Code 1950, §§ 25-17, 25-18, 25-18.1; 1956, c. 563; 1962, c. 426, § 25-46.21; 1991, c. 520; 2000, c. 1029; 2003, c. 940.
2023 Code of Virginia › Title 25.1 - Eminent Domain › Chapter 2 - Condemnation Procedures › § 25.1-234. Participation by certain tenants in proceedings to determine just compensation

A. Any tenant under a lease with a term of 12 months or longer may participate in the proceedings to determine just compensation to the same extent as his landlord or the owner, if, not less than 10 days prior to the date for the trial of the issue of just compensation, such tenant shall file his petition for intervention, in the manner provided in § 25.1-221. Such petition for intervention shall include (i) a verified copy of the lease under which he is in possession and (ii) an affidavit by the tenant or his duly authorized agent or attorney, stating:
1. That he claims an interest in the award; and
2. That he desires to offer admissible evidence concerning the value of the property being taken or damaged.
B. For the purposes of this section, the term of a tenant's lease shall include any renewals or extensions for which the tenant has an enforceable written option. The term "tenant" shall include the assignee of the original tenant, as well as any sublessee of the entire demised premises of the owner for the full unexpired term of the sublessor.
C. Nothing in this section shall be construed, however, as authorizing such tenant to offer any evidence in the proceedings to determine just compensation concerning the value of his leasehold interest in the property involved therein or as authorizing the body determining just compensation to make any such determination in formulating its report.
D. As used in this section, "proceedings to determine just compensation" means proceedings described in §§ 25.1-231, 25.1-232, and 25.1-233.
1966, c. 512, § 25-46.21:1; 2000, c. 1029; 2003, c. 940.
2023 Code of Virginia › Title 25.1 - Eminent Domain › Chapter 2 - Condemnation Procedures › § 25.1-235. Compensation of commissioners or jurors

The commissioners or jurors summoned shall, for every day or portion thereof they may be employed in the performance of their duties, receive an allowance in the amount prescribed in § 17.1-618 as compensation for their attendance, travel and other costs, to be paid by the petitioner.
Code 1919, § 4366; 1928, p. 335; 1948, p. 169; Code 1950, § 25-15; 1962, c. 426, § 25-46.22; 1973, c. 26; 1974, c. 346; 1976, c. 308; 1982, c. 566; 1993, c. 137; 2000, c. 1029; 2003, c. 940; 2006, c. 586; 2010, cc. 177, 835.
2023 Code of Virginia › Title 25.1 - Eminent Domain › Chapter 2 - Condemnation Procedures › § 25.1-236. Contracts made part of report

If the petitioner and the person whose property is being condemned under the provisions of this chapter shall, before the report of just compensation is made, (i) enter into any contract in relation to building, operating, or maintaining the proposed work, or in relation to fencing, culverts, depots, stations, crossings, sidings, cattle guards, damage from fire, injury to or destruction of property, real or personal, or like matters, and (ii) introduce such contract at the trial of the issue of just compensation, such contract shall be accepted and made a part of the report of the award of just compensation. Upon confirmation of such report, the contract shall thereafter run as a covenant with the land or with the interest or estate therein taken.
Code 1919, § 4380; Code 1950, §§ 25-36, 25-37; 1962, c. 426, § 25-46.23; 2003, c. 940.
2023 Code of Virginia › Title 25.1 - Eminent Domain › Chapter 2 - Condemnation Procedures › § 25.1-237. Payment of compensation and damages into court; vesting of title

Upon the return of the report of the body determining just compensation, and the confirmation, alteration, or modification thereof in the manner provided in this chapter, the sum so ascertained by the court as compensation and damages, if any, to the property owners may be paid into court. The clerk shall deposit such funds to the credit of the court in an account of a type that bears interest. Upon paying such sum into court, title to the property and rights condemned shall vest in the petitioner to the extent prayed for in the petition, unless such title shall have already vested in the petitioner in a manner otherwise provided by law. The petitioner or its agent shall have the right to enter and construct its works or improvements upon or through the property described in its petition.
Code 1919, § 4369; Code 1950, §§ 25-19, 25-20; 1962, c. 426, § 25-46.24; 2000, c. 1029; 2003, c. 940; 2022, c. 735.
2023 Code of Virginia › Title 25.1 - Eminent Domain › Chapter 2 - Condemnation Procedures › § 25.1-238. Petitioner may begin work during pendency of proceedings; injunction prohibited

A. Upon the return of the report of the body determining just compensation and upon payment into court of the sum ascertained therein, the petitioner or its agents may enter and construct its works or improvements upon or through the property as described in its petition, notwithstanding the pendency of proceedings on any objections to such report in the trial court, or upon an appeal of the case, or the ordering of a new trial of the issue of just compensation or otherwise.
B. No order shall be made nor any injunction awarded by any court to stay the petitioner in the prosecution of its work unless it is manifest that the petitioner or its agents are transcending their authority and that the interposition of the court is necessary to prevent injury that cannot be adequately compensated in damages.
Code 1919, § 4371; Code 1950, § 25-23; 1962, c. 426, § 25-46.25; 2000, c. 1029; 2003, c. 940.
2023 Code of Virginia › Title 25.1 - Eminent Domain › Chapter 2 - Condemnation Procedures › § 25.1-239. Finality of order confirming, altering or modifying report; appeal

A. The order confirming, altering or modifying the report of just compensation shall be final.
B. Any party aggrieved thereby may appeal to the Court of Appeals and a supersedeas may be granted in the same manner as is now provided by law and the Rules of Court applicable to civil cases. An order setting aside the report and awarding a new trial of the issue of just compensation shall not be a final order for the purposes of appeal.
C. Any party aggrieved by a judgment of the Court of Appeals rendered pursuant to subsection B may apply for an appeal to the Supreme Court and a supersedeas may be granted in the same manner as is now provided by law and the Rules of Court applicable to civil cases. An order setting aside the report and awarding a new trial of the issue of just compensation shall not be a final order for the purposes of appeal.
1962, c. 426, § 25-46.26; 2003, c. 940; 2021, Sp. Sess. I, c. 489.
2023 Code of Virginia › Title 25.1 - Eminent Domain › Chapter 2 - Condemnation Procedures › § 25.1-240. Distribution of money paid into court

A. Upon the award being paid into court and the confirmation of the report in the manner provided in § 25.1-237, the interest or estate of the owner or owners in the property taken or damaged shall terminate and they shall have such interest or estate in the fund and any interest accrued thereon so paid into court as they had in the property so taken or damaged. All liens by a deed of trust, judgment or otherwise upon such property or any interest therein shall be transferred to the fund so paid into court. If the court is satisfied that the persons having an interest therein are before the court, the court shall make such distribution of such money and any interest accrued thereon as to it may seem proper, having due regard to the interest of all persons therein, and in what proportions such money is properly payable.
B. If it appears from the record in the proceedings or otherwise that the person or persons or classes of persons in the proceedings are vested with the superior right or claim of title in the land or estate or interest therein condemned, or in the proceeds of the award of just compensation, and that the record does not disclose any denial or dispute thereof, by any person or party in interest, the court may direct that the fund and any interest accrued thereon, after the payment therefrom of any taxes, be disbursed and distributed accordingly among the persons entitled thereto or to such person who they may by writing direct.
C. Notwithstanding the provisions of subsection B, the court may inquire into the rights or claims of any persons appearing to be infants, incapacitated or under any other legal incapacity, independent of any statement in the record.
D. Any order for distribution shall conserve and protect the rights of such parties in and to the fund and any interest accrued thereon.
E. The cost of a commissioner in chancery appointed by the court to assist in making the proper distribution in cases of legal disability as herein set forth may be taxed as a cost of the proceedings, to be paid by the petitioner.
Code 1919, § 4374; 1942, p. 339; Code 1950, § 25-26; 1962, c. 426, § 25-46.28; 1964, c. 590; 1979, c. 494; 1997, c. 801; 2003, c. 940.
2023 Code of Virginia › Title 25.1 - Eminent Domain › Chapter 2 - Condemnation Procedures › § 25.1-241. Hearing on controversy among claimants to money paid into court

A. If it appears to the court that there exists a controversy among claimants to the fund and any interest accrued thereon, or to the ownership of the property subject to the condemnation, the court shall enter an order setting a time for hearing the case and determining the rights and claims of all persons entitled to the fund or to any interest or share therein.
B. In order to enable the court to determine the proper disposition of the fund and any interest accrued thereon, the court may, for good cause shown, appoint a commissioner in chancery to take evidence upon the conflicting claims. If the fund, exclusive of interest, is $500 or more, the costs incident to or arising out of a trial or a determination of such issues or out of a determination of the ownership of the fund and any interest accrued thereon or the distribution thereof shall not be taxed against the petitioner. If the fund, exclusive of interest, is less than $500, such costs shall be taxed against the petitioner.
C. Upon a determination by the court of the rights and claims of the persons entitled to the fund and any interest accrued thereon, an order shall be entered directing the disbursement among the persons entitled thereto or to whomsoever they may by writing direct. Any party aggrieved thereby may apply for an appeal as provided in subsection B of § 25.1-239.
Code 1919, § 4374; 1942, p. 339; Code 1950, § 25-26; 1962, c. 426, § 25-46.28; 1964, c. 590; 1979, c. 494; 1997, c. 801; 2003, c. 940; 2005, c. 885.
2023 Code of Virginia › Title 25.1 - Eminent Domain › Chapter 2 - Condemnation Procedures › § 25.1-242. Appointment of other body to determine just compensation when new trial ordered; costs of new trial

A. If (i) the body determining just compensation fails to report its award of just compensation within a reasonable time after the issue of just compensation is submitted to it; (ii) the body determining just compensation reports that it is unable to make such award; (iii) the body's report is set aside; or (iv) a final order upon its report has been set aside upon appeal and a new trial ordered, the court shall, without further notice, as often as seems to it proper, appoint another body to determine just compensation of the same type as the preceding body, and the matter shall proceed as prescribed in this chapter.
B. If a new trial of the issue of just compensation is ordered, either in the trial court or upon appeal, upon an exception by an owner with respect to the insufficiency of the award of just compensation, and the subsequent report of the award of just compensation, which is confirmed, is for the same or a lesser total amount, the court shall (i) tax all the costs of the new trial against the owner making such exception and (ii) order repayment to the petitioner of any sum paid to such owner out of the fund paid into court by the petitioner in excess of the total sum ascertained by the second report with interest thereon from the date the original payment was made to such owner until the date such excess is repaid to the petitioner. Interest accruing thereon prior to July 1, 1970, shall be paid at the rate of five percent annually; interest accruing thereafter and prior to July 1, 1981, shall be paid at the rate of six percent annually; interest accruing thereafter and prior to July 1, 2003, shall be paid at the rate of eight percent annually; and interest accruing thereafter shall be paid at the general account's primary liquidity portfolio rate, compiled by the Department of the Treasury for the month in which the original payment was made to such owner.
C. If such owner fails to make such repayment within 30 days from the date of the entry of such order, the court shall enter judgment therefor against such owner.
Code 1919, §§ 4372, 4387; 1934, p. 514; Code 1950, §§ 25-22, 25-24; 1962, c. 426, § 25-46.29; 1970, c. 308; 1981, c. 476; 1991, c. 520; 2000, c. 1029; 2003, c. 940.
2023 Code of Virginia › Title 25.1 - Eminent Domain › Chapter 2 - Condemnation Procedures › § 25.1-245.1. Costs

A. Except as otherwise provided in this chapter, all costs of the proceeding in the trial court that are fixed by statute shall be taxed against the condemnor.
B. The court shall order the condemnor to pay to the owner reasonable costs and fees, not to exceed $7,500, unless the court approves a higher amount, for a survey for the owner.
C. If an owner whose property is taken by condemnation under this title or under Title 33.2 is awarded at trial, as compensation for the taking of or damage to his real property, an amount that is 25 percent or more greater than the amount of the condemnor's initial written offer made pursuant to § 25.1-204, the court may order the condemnor to pay to the owner those (i) reasonable costs, other than attorney fees, and (ii) reasonable fees and travel costs, including reasonable appraisal and engineering fees incurred by the owner, for up to three experts or as many experts as are called by the condemnor, whichever is greater, who testified at trial.
D. All costs on appeal shall be assessed and assessable in the manner provided by law and the Rules of Court as in other civil cases.
E. The requirements of this section shall not apply to those condemnation actions initiated by a public service company, public service corporation, railroad pursuant to the delegation of the power of eminent domain granted in Title 56, or government utility corporation, as defined by § 1-219.1, involving easements adjudged at less than $10,000.
F. This section is to be liberally construed to effect its purpose of ensuring that owners receive the full measure of just compensation to which they are constitutionally entitled, without that amount being reduced by the costs of asserting their constitutional right to just compensation.
2016, c. 713; 2020, c. 1244; 2022, c. 735.
2023 Code of Virginia › Title 25.1 - Eminent Domain › Chapter 2 - Condemnation Procedures › § 25.1-246. When sheriff to remove forcible resistance to entry

In any case in which the petitioner may be entitled under the laws of this Commonwealth to enter upon property for purposes of making examinations or surveys as are authorized by law, to enter upon property in accordance with the provisions of this chapter, or to condemn any property, the sheriff, whenever required, shall attend and remove, if necessary, any forcible resistance to any such entry or taking.
Code 1919, § 4386; Code 1950, § 25-44; 1962, c. 426, § 25-46.33; 1971, Ex. Sess., c. 155; 2003, c. 940.
2023 Code of Virginia › Title 25.1 - Eminent Domain › Chapter 2 - Condemnation Procedures › § 25.1-247. Recordation of orders, judgments and proceedings; costs

A. The clerk of the court shall make and certify a copy of so much of the orders, judgments and proceedings in the case as shall show such condemnation, including a plat and description of the property condemned, and any such contract, if any there be, as is mentioned in § 25.1-236. The clerk shall record such material in the land records in his office, and index it in the names of the parties.
B. If any portion of the land lies in two or more localities, the clerk shall certify a copy of the proceedings to the clerk of the court of each locality. The clerks shall record and index the copy as provided in subsection A.
C. The fees of the clerk for recording shall be the same as for recording a deed. The fees shall be paid by the petitioner.
Code 1919, § 4381; Code 1950, § 25-38; 1962, c. 426, § 25-46.27; 1991, c. 520; 2003, c. 940.
2023 Code of Virginia › Title 25.1 - Eminent Domain › Chapter 2 - Condemnation Procedures › § 25.1-247.1. Distribution of funds to owner or owner's attorney

Notwithstanding any other provision of this chapter, upon any settlement or final determination resulting in a judgment for the owner, whether funds have been paid into the court or are outstanding, all such funds due and owing shall be payable to the owner or, if the owner consents, to the owner's attorney within 30 days of the settlement or final determination, unless otherwise subject to § 25.1-240, 25.1-241, 25.1-243, or 25.1-250. Nothing in this section shall be construed to alter the priority of liens or any obligation to satisfy or release any outstanding liens on the property or the funds. The failure to pay these sums within 30 days to the property owner, as specified herein, shall result in an award of attorney fees and interest at the judgment rate from the date the funds became due and owing. The provisions of this section and its remedies shall apply to any condemnation action whether such action arises under this title or under Title 33.2.
2018, c. 842; 2022, c. 702.
2023 Code of Virginia › Title 25.1 - Eminent Domain › Chapter 2 - Condemnation Procedures › § 25.1-248. Dismissal of proceedings prior to trial on issue of just compensation

If a hearing has not begun in the trial of the issue of just compensation for the taking or damaging of property and the petitioner has not already acquired the title or a lesser interest or estate in, or taken possession of, such property, the petitioner may upon motion obtain, as a matter of right, an order dismissing the proceeding as to such property. Such order shall also provide, except as may be provided otherwise in a settlement by agreement of the parties, that the petitioner shall pay such owner or owners their reasonable expenses that have been actually incurred by them in preparing for the trial on the issue of just compensation, in such amounts as the court deems just and reasonable.
Code 1919, § 4387; 1934, p. 514; Code 1950, § 25-22; 1962, c. 426, § 25-46.34; 1972, c. 742; 2003, c. 940.