In easement law, condemnation refers to which of the following actions?

• A. A seller reserves an easement for his use after the sale.
• B. By prescription
• C. Acquisition of private lands for public use in exchange for just compensation
• D. When terminating an easement can be given up voluntarily

Answer: (C)

Condemnation is the government's power of eminent domain to acquire private property for a public use, with just compensation paid to the owner. In easement terms, this means a public entity can obtain the necessary land or easement rights when a project serves the public, such as a road, utility line, or drainage, and the owner is paid a fair value for the taking. The process is involuntary and often involves a determination of value and sometimes court action to ensure the owner receives just compensation. This differs from acquiring rights by prescription, which happens through long-term, open use by another party over time; from private arrangements where a seller reserves an easement or retains use after sale; and from voluntarily relinquishing an easement, which is a private or contract-based termination rather than a government taking. Therefore, acquisition of private lands for public use in exchange for just compensation best matches condemnation.