Eminent domain allows the government to take private property for public use, provided the owner receives just compensation. While this legal principle is meant to serve public interests, property owners often find themselves at a disadvantage when facing forced acquisition. The process can be complex, and government agencies may undervalue the...
Although it may not happen that often, the government does have the right to take private property for public use, provided other circumstances are present.
A local story provides context. According to court filings, the former owners of Boston's historic Modern Theater are seeking almost $1 million dollars from the Boston Redevelopment Authority. The BRA...
In Massachusetts, state law governs certain aspects of the landlord-tenant relationship. In fact, the website of the Attorney General of Massachusetts contains helpful information about tenancies established by written lease and those at-will. The information is helpful for prospective tenants, especially those who might not know that they have certain protected rights.
For example, some...
Zoning laws in Massachusetts are not set in stone, as a recent article reminds us. According to a recent vote of a Worcester City Council subcommittee, local developers may have to pay heed to new open space considerations.
Specifically, the council members approved a 131-page plan to create more city parks, rectangular fields, dog parks,...
If readers needed a sign that local zoning disputes can be big business, Boston Mayor Martin J. Walsh recently created a new senior-level zoning chief for Boston’s City Hall. The position’s duties include making regulatory and operational recommendations that impact the Boston area.
An attorney who focuses on land use and zoning might draw another...
