Moving government law forward

Whether you need permission to make a change to your property or whether you want to make sure you’re paid adequately if the government takes your land through eminent domain, Burnette Shutt & McDaniel is ready to help.

Firm co-founder Kathleen McDaniel is a former planning commission member, and the insights she gained while serving are an advantage to her clients. She understands the delicate balancing acts that often come into play.

  • Governments have the right to take property for worthy projects through eminent domain – and land owners have the right to be paid fairly for it.
  • Governments can create laws and ordinances that protect the public – but land owners can seek an inverse condemnation if the regulations are so burdensome that their property is useless.
  • Owners have the right to develop their property – but neighbors have the right to peace and tranquility.

Balancing those rights can be tricky. That’s why it’s important to have an experienced government law attorney working for you. One who’s familiar, not only with the law, but with how governments operate.

Kathleen has the skills and know-how to help you find the solution that makes the most sense. She considers time, money and balancing the rights of both sides when recommending a course of action. Though many matters can be resolved without a lawsuit, we don’t shy away from a battle. We’re all skilled litigators, too.

A wide range of government law issues

In addition to issues such as eminent domain, condemnation and land use, we represent clients in issues under the Freedom of Information Act. Government information is your information. If an agency won’t release documents or data, we will fight to help you get it.

We also represent local government agencies. We can help them acquire private land for public projects or grow through annexation.