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Barron, Adler, Clough & Oddo 2025 Eminent Domain Victories and How They Shaped Texas Property Rights
2025 was a landmark year for Texas eminent domain law firm Barron, Adler, Clough & Oddo, PLLC. We successfully brought two eminent domain cases to jury trial, which is an exceptional achievement for any law firm. From the City of Lubbock to Williamson County in Central Texas, these cases unfolded in vastly different corners of the state, underscoring the diverse challenges facing Texas property owners today.
In each case, our attorneys worked hard to ensure our clients received the full and fair compensation they deserved. Eminent domain cases going to jury trials are rare, demanding a deep understanding of valuation, land use and the tactics used by condemning authorities. Our firm’s willingness and ability to take cases to a jury demonstrates our commitment to going the distance for landowners when their property rights are at stake.
As Texas continues to experience unprecedented growth, these case wins offer important insight into the nuances and intricacies of eminent domain law. To help unpack the significance of these wins, Managing Partner Christopher Clough reflects on what these cases mean for our clients, firm and the future of eminent domain and condemnation in Texas.
Can you explain the cases that Barron, Adler, Clough & Oddo, PLLC took to jury trial in 2025?
CC: Our team brought two major cases to a jury trial this year. In City of Lubbock v. TxDOT, we helped the City secure a nearly $8 million jury verdict in a rare City-versus-State eminent domain trial relating to TxDOT’s Loop 88 expansion project. TxDOT initially offered $420,000 for the desired land, but we were able to increase the win by almost nineteen-fold. In Williamson County, Texas v. J.A. Davidson Holdings, L.P., Williamson County sought two takings from a private landowner for their Corridor C project. Following an April 2025 jury verdict of $4,437,000 for one of the cases, both parties reached a mutual Rule 11 Settlement Agreement that ultimately resulted in a combined $7.35 million final judgment for the landowner.
See: Barron, Adler, Clough & Oddo Secures Nearly $8M Jury Verdict for City of Lubbock
What made these cases significant, and what were the key issues at hand?
CC: Jury trials are rare due to complex valuation issues, the cost of litigation and the reality that many landowners feel pressured to accept early offers, so most eminent domain cases settle long before they ever reach a courtroom. Bringing two cases to a jury verdict in a single year is a substantial accomplishment for any law firm and underscores our commitment to pursuing full and fair compensation.
In Williamson County, Texas v. J.A. Davidson Holdings, L.P., both parties ultimately reached a mutually beneficial agreement on the land acquisition terms, resolving the dispute without the need for further litigation. City of Lubbock v. TxDOT reinforces that when valuations fall short, all landowners, including other public entities, have the right and obligation to challenge initial offers and avoid being taken advantage of.
How did these jury verdicts signal for eminent domain law in Texas looking ahead in 2026?
CC: Eminent domain is constantly evolving and every case is unique, so as we move into 2026, our firm remains steadfast in protecting property owners and ensuring they receive the compensation the law entitles them to. These results reinforce an important trend heading into 2026:
- Property owners are increasingly empowered,
- Juries are valuing land more holistically and
- Condemning entities may face increased pressure to negotiate fairly
If you are facing eminent domain or condemnation, our lawyers are ready to guide you through every step. We bring extensive trial experience, deep knowledge of condemnation law and a proven record of standing up to condemning authorities. Reach out to our team to discuss your situation and learn how we can help you navigate the eminent domain process with confidence.