What is meant by "eminent domain"?

The concept of "eminent domain" refers to the government's right to take private property for public use, provided that just compensation is given to the property owner. This power is rooted in the Fifth Amendment of the U.S. Constitution, which states that private property cannot be taken for public use without just compensation.

Eminent domain is often used for projects such as building roads, schools, or other public infrastructure that benefits the community at large. The principle behind this power is that the needs of the community as a whole can sometimes outweigh individual property rights, but it is also balanced by the requirement that property owners receive fair compensation, ensuring that their rights are respected.

Understanding this concept is important for recognizing how government actions can affect private property rights and the legal frameworks in place to protect individuals when these rights are invoked.