What does Just Compensation mean?

Just Compensation refers to the fair monetary sum awarded to an owner when their asset is taken or expropriated under lawful authority for public use. The principle ensures the owner isn’t disadvantaged financially by losing rightful possession. Appraisers and officials typically evaluate tangible features—like location or improvements—to decide a suitable amount reflecting the asset’s market worth at the time of acquisition.

• Public Interest: Common in projects like highways or utility expansions.
• Valuation Focus: Taps into appraisals or comparable sale data for objectivity.
• Legal Protection: Avoids underpayment claims and fosters due process.
• Dispute Possibility: Owners can challenge sums if they deem it inadequate.

Through just compensation, governments preserve fairness, balancing public needs while indemnifying private entities whose property must yield to communal projects.