just compensation

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just compensation

A requirement of the United States Constitution that no owner be deprived of private property without payment of a value which is fair to the owner, and fair to the taxpayers who must pay the compensation. This concept forms the basis of eminent domain law and condemnations.

References in classic literature ?

No person shall be held to answer for a capital, or otherwise infamous crime, unless on a presentment or indictment of a Grand Jury, except in cases arising in the land or naval forces, or in the Militia, when in actual service in time of War or public danger; nor shall any person be subject for the same offense to be twice put in jeopardy of life or limb; nor shall be compelled in any criminal case to be a witness against himself, nor be deprived of life, liberty, or property, without due process of law; nor shall private property be taken for public use without just compensation.