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Murphy, John C.

John C. Murphy - Costa Mesa, CA

Attorney at Murphy & Evertz

Eminent Domain and Condemnation Lawyers in Costa Mesa, CA

650 Town Center Drive Suite 550 Costa Mesa, CA 92626

  • Free Consultation
  • 1 Super Lawyers®
  • 46 Years 
    Experience

Costa Mesa Eminent Domain and Condemnation Lawyer

Updated: 03/10/2026

Areas of Practice

  • Eminent Domain and Condemnation
  • Real Estate Litigation
  • Real Estate

Attorney Information

Overview

Managing partner John Murphy, among the most recognized and successful figures in California eminent domain, focuses his practice exclusively on eminent domain, inverse condemnation and other complex jury trials. He has earned a state-wide and an emerging national reputation representing a wide variety of public agencies, corporations, and landowners.

Mr. Murphy and his firm have earned the largest owners’ awards in California for each of the past several years. These awards amount to well over $300 million over the past ten years.

He has served as lead trial counsel in numerous significant, successful jury trials. He speaks regularly on eminent domain issues throughout the country, and his cases have garnered significant press coverage. He has been the subject of three Los Angeles Daily Journal profiles and has been featured on the cover of both Verdicts and Settlements and the Daily Journal. Mr. Murphy’s jury victories include one of the largest verdicts ($14.6 million) ever obtained in Marin County Superior Court. Recent victories earned by Mr. Murphy for landowner clients include a $23 million award (2021); a $48 million award (2019); a $42.7 million award (2015) and a $15.4 million award (2013).

Mr. Murphy has been chosen repeatedly for inclusion in the definitive legal directory, Best Lawyers in America – – most recently for 2024 – – in two practice areas: eminent domain law and real estate law. From 2006 – 2024, the Los Angeles Times has featured Mr. Murphy in its articles, “Southern California’s Best Lawyers.Los Angeles magazine has listed him repeatedly in Southern California Super Lawyers. Orange Coast magazine has included him for years (2007 – 2024) in its feature, “Top Attorneys in Orange County.”

Best Lawyers in America, the nation’s oldest and most respected legal peer-review publication, honored Mr. Murphy in 2012 as its “Orange County Litigation – Real Estate Lawyer of The Year.” Mr. Murphy was also named one of the “Top 50 in Orange County” lawyers for 2012 by Southern California’s Super Lawyers magazine.

Beginning in 2017, Mr. Murphy was appointed to the Executive Committee of the California Lawyers Association Real Property Law Section. Beginning in 2006, Mr. Murphy has been designated a Fellow of the American Bar Association. He has been continuously accorded an “AV-Preeminent” rating by Martindale Hubbell.

Over the past ten years, Mr. Murphy has spoken at numerous seminars and programs, most recently in March 2023 at the annual CLE International Conference on Eminent Domain on “New Legal Developments: The Year in Review.” In just the past few years, he has spoken at several American Law Institute - American Bar Association (“ALI-ABA”) National Eminent Domain Conferences, including conferences in Arizona, Florida, San Diego, Palm Springs and Nashville. He has also addressed International Right-of-Way ("IRWA") annual conventions throughout the country, including presentations in Connecticut, West Virginia, Washington and Georgia.

Mr. Murphy has served for over 20 years as the co-chairman of the annual CLE International Southern California Conference on Eminent Domain. He has spoken frequently at Appraisal Institute seminars, and authored an article published in the Appraisal Journal.

Mr. Murphy also authored the chapter on condemnation for the California Continuing Education of the Bar treatise, Ground Lease Practice. He also authored a chapter in one of the American Bar Association’s leading text books on expert witnesses, Litigators on Experts.

Mr. Murphy has managed, or played a lead role in, several major public agency acquisition projects. These agencies include:

· Orange County Flood Control District (2008 - Present)

· Los Angeles Department of Water and Power (2013 - Present)

· Riverside County Flood Control and Water Conservation District (2003 – 2015)

· Orange County Transportation Corridor Agencies (1996 – 2007)

· Riverside County (2007 – Present)

· Riverside County Economic Development Agency (2003 – Present)

· San Diego Unified Port District (2015 – 2018)

· City of Los Angeles Department of Airports (LAWA) (2004 – 2007)

· Orange County Transportation Corridor Agencies (1996 – 2007)

· City of Newport Beach (2007 – 2008); and

· Alameda Corridor Transportation Authority (1998 – 2003).

Mr. Murphy is the former president of Chapter 67 of the International Right of Way Association (2000) and former member of the Board of Directors of the Orange County Bar Foundation. He is a past President of the Warren J. Ferguson Chapter of the American Inns of Court and has served on the Board of Visitors of the Chapman University Law School. He is also a member of Lambda Alpha, and an affiliate member of the Appraisal Institute.

Mr. Murphy received his J.D. from the University of Southern California, Gould School of Law in 1980; and his B.A., with honors, from the University of California, Riverside in 1976.

Representative Recent Matters - Landowner Focus

San Diego Association of Governments v. 8650 Villa La Jolla, Inc.Murphy & Evertz LLP represented the Florida State Teachers’ Pension fund and 8650 Villa La Jolla, Inc., owners of a large shopping center in La Jolla. SANDAG sought to build an entirely new trolley station and multi-story enclosed parking garage on the Firm’s clients’ property. After successfully shepherding the ownership through years of complex construction coordination, the Firm earned its clients a $23 million award - - more than double SANDAG’s estimate of compensation.

Nyenhuis Family Investments, LLC v. County of San BernardinoMurphy & Evertz LLP represented the Nyenhuis Family - - owners of a 60-acre dairy farm in Chino - - in an inverse condemnation action against the County of San Bernardino relating to expansion of the Chino Airport. After the Firm successfully compelled the County to concede liability, our team achieved an arbitration victory of nearly $48 million in just compensation, plus a substantial attorneys’ fees award for the family.

Los Angeles County Metropolitan Transportation Authority v. Gillis Family PartnershipMurphy & Evertz LLP represented the Gillis family against the Los Angeles County Transportation Authority (“Authority”) in connection with the Authority’s taking of a large office building in Century City. Before being displaced, a large bank leased a portion of the building and the Gillis family operated a cutting-edge medical laboratory in other portions of the building. Murphy & Evertz earned an award of $53.5 million for the building and improvements.

City of Lake Forest v. Alexander S. Rados, TrusteeMurphy & Evertz LLP represented the landowner in an eminent domain action brought by the City of Lake Forest. The City condemned the Rados Family’s property - - a little over 13 acres - - for a new sports park. The City valued just compensation for the expert exchange at $6.665 million. The Firm successfully challenged this valuation. The case settled one week before trial for $15.4 million.

3187 Redhill LLC, M2 Freeway LLC; ICC LLC v. The People of the State of California, acting by and through the Department of TransportationMurphy & Evertz LLP represented the landowner of a multi-tenant business park consisting of eight buildings and 70 suites in an inverse condemnation action against Caltrans. The firm’s client claimed that as a result of Caltrans’ unreasonable pre-condemnation conduct and unreasonable delay, it lost tenants and potential tenants, could not sell the property, and lost rent. Caltrans denied any wrongdoing. Murphy & Evertz succeeded in earning its client an award of $38 million, and also an award of lost rent.

The People of the State of California, acting by and through the Department of Transportation v. Roll Properties LLC and Carmenita SFS Property LLCMurphy & Evertz LLP represented the owners of a large, 210,271 square foot business park with 62 tenants in Santa Fe Springs on the Interstate 5 freeway. After establishing the necessity for a full take, the Firm negotiated a $25.5 million sales price, while preserving the client’s ability to seek substantial additional precondemnation damages and reimbursement of environmental remediation offsets.

Las Galinas Valley Sanitation District v. Silveira, et al.Murphy & Evertz LLP attorneys represented a long-time Marin County dairy rancher in a complex condemnation jury trial. The condemning agency's pre-litigation offer was $650,000. The jury verdict amounted to $14.6 million, which was the largest condemnation verdict in the state for 2000, and one of the largest verdicts of any kind in Marin County. Client also won a substantial litigation expense award.

San Francisco Bay Area Rapid Transit (BART) v. PPF IndustrialMurphy & Evertz LLP represented Morgan Stanley/PPF Industrial, the owner of a 28.6-acre multi-tenant industrial business park. BART condemned the property for the Hayward Maintenance Yard Project. BART initially deposited $35,000,000. The case settled for total just compensation of $42.7 million.

Fresno Unified School District v. International Church of the Foursquare Gospel, et al. - Murphy & Evertz LLP represented a local Fresno congregation, and it’s Pastor against the District. The District condemned the church’s property for a new elementary school. The District initially offered $410,000. The case settled for total just compensation of $1,350,000.

People of the State of California, by and through the Department of Transportation v. Calvary Deaf Church and the Southern California Assemblies of God - Murphy & Evertz LLP won a $ 4.6 million settlement, just one week before a scheduled three week jury trial for the defendant congregation and denomination. Caltrans had previously offered no more than $ 1.6 million and had planned to argue at trial for a $ 770,000 value. The final settlement of 4.6 Million is well more than five times this figure.

People of the State of California, by and through the Department of Transportation v. International Church of the Foursquare Gospel, et al. - Murphy & Evertz LLP represented the congregation of the oldest church in Orange County in a complex, multi-phase condemnation jury trial. The Agency's pre-litigation offer was $726,000. The verdict and award of litigation expenses totaled $1.9 million.

People of the State of California by and through the Department of Transportation v. Plaza Covina et al. - Murphy & Evertz LLP represented Westfield in an eminent domain action brought by Caltrans. Westfield owned a freeway-prominent 11,258 square-foot retail pad in the City of West Covina. Caltrans sought a full-take of the property for its I-10 high-occupancy vehicle lane project. Caltrans’ initial offer was $3,136,000. The firm earned an award of $7.8 Million, plus costs in the amount of $10,925.

Riverside County Transportation Commission v. Ostlund - Murphy & Evertz LLP represented the landowner in an eminent domain action brought by the Riverside County Transportation Commission. The Ostlund Family owned a parcel totaling 20,909 square feet and improved with a commercial/industrial building. RCTC’s initial offer to the Ostlund Family was $1,117,000. RCTC ultimately agreed to pay the Ostlund Family $2.1 million.

Riverside County Transportation Commission v. 2410 Wardlow Property, LLC, et al. - Murphy & Evertz LLP represented the landowner of a 4.73 acre parcel improved with eleven freeway-frontage retail and showroom suites. The property also enjoyed a 40-foot tall pylon sign with double-faced digital marquee, which provided freeway-visible advertising space for the property and its tenants. RCTC sought to condemn portions of the property for its SR-91 widening project. RCTC initially offered $1,111,000. The case settled before trial for $4.7 million.

San Bernardino County Transportation Commission v. Arrowhead Central Credit Union - Murphy & Evertz LLP represented the Arrowhead Central credit Union in an eminent domain action brought by the San Bernardino County Transportation Commission. SBCTC sought to condemn a portion of the property for the construction of the Downtown San Bernardino Passenger Rail Project. SBCTC valued total compensation to Arrowhead at $1,184,811. The firm earned its client $2,070,000.

Budget Inn (Santa Fe Springs) adv. Caltrans - Murphy & Evertz LLP represented the owner of a 105 room budget motel. Caltrans’ initial offer for a part take was $84,000. Mr. Murphy won a settlement of $4.6 million for his clients.

People of the State of California, by and through the Department of Transportation v. Altmans, et al. - Murphy & Evertz LLP represented the owner of an RV dealership on Interstate 10 freeway at Baldwin Avenue. The condemning agency, Caltrans, initially offered $958,000. The case settled one week before the jury trial was to begin for total compensation of $7.85 million for his client.

City of La Puente Redevelopment Agency v. Gudzunas, et al. - Murphy & Evertz LLP represented the owner of a three acre retail shopping mall developed in the 1950s. The condemning agency, the City of La Puente Redevelopment Agency, initially offered $3.55 million. Mr. Murphy negotiated a lost rent agreement which insulated our client from any loss of income during the litigation. The case then settled on the eve of jury trial for total compensation of $6.2 million to our client.

People of the State of California, by and through the Department of Transportation v. Canyon Springs LLC - Mr. Murphy represented landowner Canyon Springs LLC. Caltrans offered $1.1 million for 3.79 acres of land near the I-215/State Route 60 interchange. The case settled one week before trial for $3.8 million.

Paramount Unified School District v. McLane Manufacturing, Inc., et al. - Mr. Murphy represented manufacturer, the largest employer in the City of Paramount, in a condemnation matter. Awarded $5.58 million, more than twice the school district's original $2.2 million offer.

Representative Matters - Public Agency Focus

County of Inyo v. City of Los Angeles Department of Water and PowerMurphy & Evertz LLP represented LADWP against the County of Inyo in this high profile set of three cases, which earned substantial publicity. The Los Angeles Times featured the cases on its front page. The County sought to condemn three landfill sites owned by LADWP. The Firm has filed three motions for summary judgment. Once granted, the Firm will have prevailed on behalf of LADWP, and successfully contested the County’s right-to-take.

Orange County Flood Control District – SCE Relocation Disputes – Murphy & Evertz LLP is representing the County concerning utility facility relocations affecting SCE involving potentially over $100 million.

Stueve Farms adv. County of Orange - Murphy & Evertz LLP represented the County of Orange in an inverse condemnation action brought by a large residential developer seeking up to $60 million in compensation. Our demurrer was sustained without leave to amend. Plaintiff subsequently dismissed its appeal.

Vander Dussen adv. Orange County Flood Control District - Murphy & Evertz LLP represented Orange County Flood Control District in the acquisition of a large, operating dairy. The final acquisition price - - over $30 million - - was less than the initial agency appraisal.

Foothill/Eastern Transportation Corridor Agency v. Griswold, et al. - Mr. Murphy represented the condemning public agency. After nearly one month of trial, the court adopted our arguments that no substantial interference with access occurred. The case settled soon thereafter.

Alameda Corridor Transportation Authority v. Calmat Company, et al. - Mr. Murphy represented the condemning public agency in a case where opponent sought close to $5 million for loss of business goodwill. Settled case for $2.5 million 1 week before trial.

San Joaquin Hills Transportation Corridor Agency v. Costco Wholesale Corporation - Mr. Murphy represented the condemning public agency in this two week condemnation trial. Won key motions to exclude testimony. The case settled for the amount of the agency's initial offer.

Los Angeles Unified School District v. McNeill - Mr. Murphy represented the condemning public agency. the firm settled a six figure claim for lost business goodwill for $25,000 after expert depositions, two weeks before trial.

Professional Affiliations

American Inns of Court, Warren J. Ferguson Inn, President (2005-2006); Vice President (2004-2005); Treasurer (2003);

Fellow, American Bar Foundation (2006-present)

International Right-of-Way Association - Chapter 67, President (2000); President-Elect (1999); Executive Board (1996-Present); Newsletter Editor (1996-1998); Member (1993-Present)

International Right-of-Way – Chapters 57, 67 and 1

Lambda Alpha (Honorary Real Estate Fraternity)

Orange County Bar Foundation (Board of Directors)

Appraisal Institute, Affiliate

Orange County Superior Court, Arbitrator (1985-2008)

Chapman University Law School, Board of Visitors (2003-2011)

Recognition

Featured in the definitive legal directory, "Best Lawyers in America," from 2006 - 2024 in two categories: Eminent Domain and Condemnation Law, and Real Estate Law.

Featured in Southern California Super Lawyers from 2006 – 2024 for Land Use/Zoning, Real Estate, Business Litigation.

Featured in Los Angeles magazine from 2007 – 2024 as Southern California "Super Lawyer" for Real Estate Law.

Featured in the November, 2007 - 2024 Los Angeles Times article, “Southern California’s Best Lawyers.”

Featured in Orange Coast Magazine “Top Attorneys In Orange County” from 2006 – 2024 for Land Use/Zoning.

Selected for the "Best Lawyers in America" annual guide to Real Estate Law, published in the June 2019 issue of Corporate Counsel magazine.

Elected a Fellow of the American Bar Association in 2006.

Martindale Hubbell® AV “Pre-eminent” Rating.


Awards and Honors

Super Lawyers® Selectees

SuperLawyers

John C. Murphy included in a Super Lawyers® list

Honors

  • Featured in the definitive legal directory, "Best Lawyers in America," from 2006 - 2024 in two categories: Eminent Domain and Condemnation Law, and Real Estate Law., 2006
  • Featured in Southern California Super Lawyers from 2006 – 2024 for Land Use/Zoning, Real Estate, Business Litigation.
  • Featured in Los Angeles magazine from 2007 – 2024 as Southern California "Super Lawyer" for Real Estate Law.
  • Featured in the November, 2007 - 2024 Los Angeles Times article, “Southern California’s Best Lawyers.”
  • Featured in the November 2020 Los Angeles Times article, "Best Lawyers in the LA Area."
  • Featured in Orange Coast Magazine “Top Attorneys In Orange County” from 2006 – 2024 for Land Use/Zoning.
  • Selected for the "Best Lawyers in America" annual guide to Real Estate Law, published in the June 2019 issue of Corporate Counsel magazine.
  • Elected a Fellow of the American Bar Association in 2006.
  • Martindale Hubbell® AV “Pre-eminent” Rating.

Other Sources of Feedback About John C. Murphy

Included on the 2026 Southern California Super Lawyers list


Past Lists

  • 2025 Southern California Super Lawyers list
  • 2024 Southern California Super Lawyers list
  • 2023 Southern California Super Lawyers list
  • 2022 Southern California Super Lawyers list
  • 2021 Southern California Super Lawyers list
  • 2020 Southern California Super Lawyers list
  • 2019 Southern California Super Lawyers list
  • 2018 Southern California Super Lawyers list
  • 2017 Southern California Super Lawyers list
  • 2016 Southern California Super Lawyers list
  • 2015 Southern California Super Lawyers list
  • 2014 Southern California Super Lawyers list
  • 2013 Southern California Super Lawyers list
  • 2012 Southern California Super Lawyers list
  • 2011 Southern California Super Lawyers list
  • 2010 Southern California Super Lawyers list
  • 2009 Southern California Super Lawyers list
  • 2008 Southern California Super Lawyers list
  • 2007 Southern California Super Lawyers list

Education

  • Legal Education

    • University of Southern California Law Center, Los Angeles, California, 1980
      J.D.
  • Non Legal Education

    • Brown University (1972-1974)
    • University of California, Riverside, California, 1976
      B.A.
      Honors: With Honors

Current Employment Position(s)

  • Partner

Classes and Seminars

  • Speaker, “Challenging Public Agencies on Just Compensation, What Remedies and Strategies Are Available?,” CLE Eminent Domain Webinar (2021), Fourth Annual Valuation Conference, International Right of Way Association - Chapter 1 in Los Angeles, March 28, 1996
  • Speaker, “New Legal Developments: The Year in Review; a review of 2019 cases affecting California condemnation practitioners” CLE Webinar (2020).
  • Speaker, “Too Important To Be Left To The Engineers: Do Lawyers Have a Role in Project Design?” 36th ALI-CLE National Conference on Eminent Domain and Land Valuation Litigation, Palm Springs, CA (2019).
  • Speaker, “Eminent Domain Case Law Update,” CLE International Annual Southern California Conference, Los Angeles, CA (2019).
  • Speaker, “Masters of Trial,” CLE Annual Southern California Eminent Domain Conference, Los Angeles, CA (2019).
  • Speaker, “Taking Too Much: Governmental Regulations of Short Term Vacation Rentals,” CLE National Conference, Scottsdale, AZ (2018).
  • Speaker, “The Year in Review – Recent Legal Developments – Eminent Domain,” CLE International Annual Southern California Eminent Domain Conference, Los Angeles, CA (2018).
  • Speaker, “Eminent Domain Basics,” California Lawyers Association Annual Convention, San Diego, CA (2018).
  • Speaker, “Eminent Domain 101: Basics of Eminent Domain for the General Practitioner,” California Lawyers Association Annual Meeting, San Diego, (Sept. 15, 2018).
  • Speaker, “Civil and Traffic Engineers: How We Can Be the Key to Unlock Your Case,” 19th Annual CLE International Eminent Domain Conference, San Diego, CA (February 2017).
  • Speaker, “Working With Witnesses In Eminent Domain,” American Law Institute – Continuing Legal Education (ALI-CLE) National Eminent Domain and Land Valuation Conference, San Diego, CA (January, 2017).
  • Speaker, “Eminent Domain 101,” County of Riverside, Riverside, CA (May, 2016).
  • Speaker, “What’s Wrong With The Law of Valuation in Eminent Domain?: Four Rules We Need To Change Now,” 32nd ALI-CLE National Conference on Eminent Domain and Land Valuation Litigation, San Francisco, CA (February, 2015).
  • Speaker, “You Can’t Whistle a Symphony: A Partnered Approach to Jury Selection in Eminent Domain,” CLE International Eminent Domain Conference, San Francisco, CA (October, 2014).
  • Speaker, “Eminent Domain Update: Developments in Eminent Domain Law Across the Country: 2013-2014,” IRWA Annual International Education Conference, Hartford, Connecticut (June, 2014).
  • Speaker, “Full-Take/Part-Take? The Need for New Rules,” CLE International Eminent Domain Conference, Los Angeles, CA (May, 2014).
  • Speaker, “Eminent Domain Update: Developments in Eminent Domain Law Across the Country: 2012-2013,” IRWA Annual International Education Conference, Charleston, West Virginia (June, 2013).
  • Speaker, “Eminent Domain Update: Developments in Eminent Domain Law Across The Country: 2011-2012,” IRWA Chapter 57, Riverside, CA (September, 2012).
  • Speaker, “Eminent Domain Update: Developments in Eminent Domain Law Across The Country: 2011-2012,” IRWA Annual International Education Conference, Seattle, Washington (June, 2012).
  • Speaker, “Should We Make a Federal Case Out of It? Navigating Eminent Domain in Federal Court,” CLE International, Garden Grove, CA (April, 2012).
  • Speaker, “What’s So Good About Business Goodwill?,” 29th ALI-ABA National Conference on Eminent Domain and Land Valuation Litigation, San Diego, CA (January 26-28, 2012).
  • Speaker, “Eminent Domain For Economic Development: Is It Dead In California? If So, What Killed It?,” 29th ALI-ABA National Conference on Eminent Domain and Land Valuation Litigation, San Diego, CA (January 26-28, 2012).
  • Speaker, “Luck and The Right Buttons: A Practical Approach To Voir Dire In Eminent Domain,” CLE International, San Francisco, CA (November 4, 2011).
  • Speaker, “Surplus Property Disposition: How to Win the Game for Your Agency . . . And Stay Out of Jail,” 2011 IRWA Annual International Education Conference, Atlanta, Georgia (June, 2011).
  • Speaker, “Square Pegs, Round Holes and Easy Targets: Valuation of Special Purpose, Non-Profit Properties in Eminent Domain,” Appraisal Institute Spring Litigation Conference, Woodside, CA (May 26, 2011).
  • Co-chairperson and Moderator, CLE International Eminent Domain Conference, “Pre-Condemnation Practice: How To Avoid Early Mistakes; Special Strategies For Multiple Parcels,” San Diego (May 12, 2011).
  • Speaker, “Except from a Vending Machine: Recent Developments in Eminent Domain Law,” 2010 IRWA Annual International Education Conference, Calgary, Canada (June, 2010).
  • Co-chairperson and Moderator, 12th Annual CLE International Conference on Eminent Domain, “Grand Masters of the Eminent Domain Trial;” Los Angeles (May, 2010).
  • Speaker, “Pulling Apart the Biscuit and Putting it Back Together: Cross-Examination of the Appraisal Witness,” 12th Annual CLE International Conference on Eminent Domain, Los Angeles (May, 2010).
  • Speaker, “Pulling Apart the Biscuit and Putting it Back Together: Cross-Examination of the Eminent Domain Appraisal Expert,” CLE International, San Francisco (November 16, 2009).
  • Co-Presenter with Justice Edward J. Wallin, “The Real Deal: Negotiating and Drafting Settlement Agreements That Make Sense And Protect Your Client,” OCBA Young Lawyers Division, Santa Ana (May 21, 2009).
  • Co-Chairperson and Speaker, “Ethics – Where are the Boundaries? From Conflicts of Interest to Aggressive Advocacy,” CLE International 11th Annual Conference, Los Angeles (April 23, 2009).
  • Speaker, “Square Pegs, Round Holes and Easy Targets: Valuation of Special Purpose, Non-Profit Properties in Eminent Domain,” IRWA, Chapter 1, Annual Valuation Conference, Montebello, CA (April 21, 2009).
  • Speaker, “Getting the Story Told: Six Ideas on Engaging Jurors During Direct Examination of the Appraisal Witness,” CLE International, Austin TX (January 22, 2009).
  • Speaker, “Eminent Domain Law: How Does Texas Law Measure Up? Lessons to Be Learned from a Comparison of the Texas System with Procedural and Substantive Eminent Domain Law in Other Jurisdictions” Panel Discussion, CLE International, Austin TX (January 22, 2009).
  • Speaker, “Square Pegs, Round Holes and Easy Targets: Valuation of Special Purpose, Non-Profit Properties in Eminent Domain,” ALI-ABA, Miami, FL (January 8-9, 2009).
  • Speaker, “Opening Statements and Closing Arguments: Setting the Stage and Closing the Deal,” CLE International, San Francisco, CA (December 8-9, 2008).
  • Speaker, “Say Ya Wanna Revolution: A 3rd Anniversary Survey of the States’ Reaction to Kelo,” IRWA 2008 Annual International Education Conference, Austin, Texas (June 22-25, 2008).
  • Speaker, “Don’t Think Twice: Propositions 98, 99 and the Future of Eminent Domain Reform,” California Counties Real Estate Group, Orange, CA (May 23, 2008).
  • Speaker, “Don’t Need a Weatherman to Know Which Way the Wind Blows: Effective Cross-Examination of the Appraisal Witness,” CLE International National Eminent Domain Conference, Orlando, Florida (May 5-6, 2008).
  • Co-chairperson, “Case Law, Legislation, Valuation and More,” 10th Annual CLE International Eminent Domain Conference, Los Angeles, CA (May 1-2, 2008).
  • Speaker, “Watching Your Es and Os: Does Professional Liability Insurance Make Sense in Eminent Domain,” IRWA Spring Valuation Seminar, Los Angeles, CA (April 22, 2008).
  • Speaker, “Is Eminent Domain Dead?: How and When Private Developers Can Still Use Eminent Domain Effectively,” CLE International Mixed Use Development Seminar, Los Angeles, CA (January 10-11, 2008).
  • Speaker, “Getting the Story Told: Six Ideas on How to Engage Jurors During Direct Examination,” CLE International, San Francisco, CA (December 6-7, 2007).
  • Speaker, “The Times They Are A’ Changing: The Future of Eminent Domain Reform in California,” IRWA Chapter 1 Annual Valuation Seminar, Los Angeles, CA (April 24, 2007).
  • Speaker, “Big Hat – No Cows: The Future of Eminent Domain Reform in California,” 65th Annual California Water Association Conference, San Francisco, CA (November 16, 2006).
  • Speaker, “Does Anybody Really Know What Time It Is? Deposits and Dates of Value in a Post-Kelo World,” Appraisal Institute Litigation Seminar, Los Angeles, CA (November 9, 2006).
  • Speaker, “Burning Down the House to Roast the Pig: Incremental Change vs. Radical Reform in Eminent Domain,” Chapman University Symposium on Eminent Domain, Orange, CA (October 20, 2006).
  • Speaker, “A Hard Rain’s Gonna (Maybe) Fall: How the Anderson Initiative Could Radically Change Land Use Planning and Infill Development in California,” University of California, Irvine Real Estate Breakfast, Irvine, CA (October 10, 2006).
  • Speaker, “A Hard Rain’s Gonna (Maybe) Fall: How the Anderson Initiative (Prop. 90) Could Radically Change Public Acquisitions,” Appraisal Institute, Southern California Chapter Luncheon Meeting, Ventura, CA (October 6, 2006).
  • Speaker, “A Hard Rain’s Gonna (Maybe) Fall: How the Anderson Initiative (Prop. 90) Could Radically Change Public Acquisitions,” International Right of Way Association Chapter 67 chapter meeting, Santa Ana, CA (September 13, 2006).
  • Speaker, “Strategies for Effectively Settling the Eminent Domain Action,” National Business Institute’s Eminent Domain Legal Update Conference, San Francisco, CA (September 7, 2006).
  • Speaker, “Does Anybody Really Know What Time It Is? Deposits and Dates of Value in a Post-Kelo World,” Los Angeles County Bar Association Eminent Domain Section Lunch, Los Angeles, CA (May 16, 2006).
  • Speaker, “Action, Reaction, Overreaction?” – The Kelo Fallout and The Legislative Responses,” County Counsels’ Association of California Civil Law and Litigation’s 2006 Annual Conference, Monterey, CA (April 27, 2006).
  • Speaker, “The Dabbler’s Downfall: What the Neo-Practitioner Needs To Know about Unique Rules and Standards in Eminent Domain Proceedings,” ALI-ABA’s 23rd Annual Eminent Domain and Land Valuation Litigation Conference, San Diego, CA (January 6, 2006).
  • Speaker, “Coordination of Right of Way Professionals in Large Public Projects,” International Right of Way Association, Chapter 1 Annual Valuation Conference, Los Angeles, CA (April 26, 2005).
  • Speaker, “A Tale of Two Approaches: The Cost of Environmental Remediation in Eminent Domain,” CLE International Eminent Domain Conference, Scottsdale, AZ (April 11, 2005).
  • Speaker, “The Dabbler’s Downfall: What Dabblers Don’t Know About Trial Tactics Unique to Eminent Domain,” 7th Annual CLE International Eminent Domain Conference, San Francisco, CA (October 28, 2004).
  • Speaker, “Why Judges and Jurors Don’t Trust Appraisers and What Right of Way Professionals Can Do About It,” International Right of Way, Chapter 67 (October 12, 2004).
  • Speaker, “The Hidden Traps: Witness Skills in Dealing with a Tough Judge or Opposing Counsel,” The 36th Annual Litigation Seminar of the Appraisal Institute (Southern California Chapter) (November 21, 2003).
  • Speaker, “Orange County’s Transportation Infrastructure: A Looming Crisis?” Orange County Bar Association – Real Estate Section (January 22, 2003).
  • Moderator, “Big Myths of Public Acquisitions,” International Right of Way Association, Orange County, 2001 Litigation Seminar (June 2001).
  • Speaker, “Part Takes and Part Cures: How Judges and Lawyers Have Stirred the Pot in 2000,” International Right of Way Association, Los Angeles, Spring Litigation Forum (April 2001).
  • Co-Instructor, Appraisal Institute Course 700, “Expert Witnesses” (May 2000).
  • Speaker, “Your Appraiser vs. the Judge: When Appraisers and the Law Clash,” 1999 International Right of Way Association Regional Spring Forum (April 1999).
  • Instructor, “Business Goodwill and the Real Estate Appraiser,” 31st Annual Litigation Seminar, Appraisal Institute – Southern California Chapter (November 20, 1998).
  • Speaker, “Proactive Approaches to Managing Litigation,” 40th Annual PCBC Western Building Show (June 24-27, 1998).
  • Instructor, “Bonus Value and Automatic Lease Termination by Eminent Domain,” 29th Annual Litigation Seminar, Appraisal Institute – Southern California Chapter (November 15, 1996).
  • Speaker, “Eminent Domain and Pre-Condemnation Planning: How to Protect Your Clients Before Condemnation Occurs,” Orange County Bar Association Real Estate Section (April 23, 1996).
  • Instructor, “Expert Witness Preparation,” Fourth Annual Valuation Conference, International Right of Way Association – Chapter 1 in Los Angeles (March 28, 1996).

Published Works

Articles

  • Co-Author, “Eminent Domain & Inverse Condemnation: 2017 in Review,” 36 Cal. Real Prop. J. 2 (2018)., Luce Forward Eminent Domain and Condemnation E-Update, February, 2008
  • Co-Author, “Lewis Carroll, Humpty Dumpty and So-Called Final Offers,” Daily Journal (June 2015)., BUILDERnews, January, 2007
  • Co-Author, “Litigators on Experts, Strategies for Managing Expert Witnesses from Rentention through Trial,” (American Bar Association Litigation Section, ABA Publishing, 2010), Experts in Condemnation Cases., California Real Estate Journal, October, 2006
  • Co-Author, “Square Pegs, Round Holes, Easy Targets: Valuing Special-Use Property In Eminent Domain,” The Appraisal Journal (August, 2010)., Coastal Post, October, 2006
  • Co-Author, “Southern California Edison Strictly Liable for Property Damage,” Los Angeles Daily Journal, September 17, 2012., Real Estate Southern California, September, 2006
  • Co-Author, “Ground Lease Practice,” (Cont. Ed. Bar 2d ed. 2009) Condemnation.
  • Co-Author, “Should Jurors Hear the Whole Story? Two Opinions Force a Look at the Role of Juries in Condemnation Trials,” California Real Estate Journal (February 18, 2003).
  • Author, “Appraisers as Expert Witnesses: What Makes Them So Special?” Right of Way – Journal of the International Right of Way Association (Mar/Apr 2001).
  • Co-Author, “Eminent Domain Reform Arrives in California Ahead of Election Day,” California Real Estate Journal (October 23, 2006).
  • Co-Author, “Anderson Initiative (Prop. 90) Could Radically Impact California Eminent Domain Law,” Coastal Post (October 2006).
  • Co-Author, “Exploring the Eminent Anderson Initiative,” Real Estate Southern California (September 2006).
  • Co-Author, “Low-Profile Anderson Initiative Would Change Eminent Domain and Land-Use Planning Radically,” California Real Estate Journal, (July 31, 2006).
  • Co-Author, “Anderson Initiative Goes to Extraordinary Lengths to Limit Eminent Domain,” Daily Journal (July 25, 2006).
  • Author, Program Materials for “The Hidden Traps – Witness Skills in Dealing with a Tough Judge or Opposing Counsel,” The 36th Annual Litigation Seminar of the Appraisal Institute (Southern California Chapter) (November 21, 2003).
  • Co-Author, “The Pain of Eminent Domain,” BUILDERnews (January 2007).
  • Co-Author, “Sacramento Area Flood Control Agency v. Dhaliwal: The Symmetry of the “Any Factor” Rule,” Murphy & Evertz E-Alert (June 2015).
  • Co-Author, “People ex rel. Dept. of Transp. v. Dry Canyon Enterprises, LLC: Bob Dylan and Business Goodwill,” Murphy & Evertz E-Alert (January 2013).
  • Co-Author, “Superior Coatings Inc., v. Los Angeles Unified School District: Much Ado About Nothing,” Murphy & Evertz E-Alert (September 2012).
  • Co-Author, “Pacific Bell Telephone Company v. Southern California Edison: Spiderman And Inverse Condemnation,” Murphy & Evertz E-Alert (September, 2012).
  • Co-Author, “City of Corona v. Liston Brick Co. of Corona: Keep Your Incompetent Evidence Out Of the Courtroom!,” Murphy & Evertz E-Alert (August, 2012).
  • Co-Author, “City of Livermore v. Baca, Groucho Marx and Severance Damages,” Murphy & Evertz E-Alert (June, 2012).
  • Co-Author, “Can Having A Plan Qualify As Bad Planning? Public Agency Proves It Lacks a “Plan” and Dodges Precondemnation Damages Liability, Despite Its Acquisition Program,” Murphy & Evertz E-Alert (April, 2011).
  • Co-Author, “Is That Your Final Offer? Agencies Beware A Final Offer Amounting To Less Than 60% Of The Compensation Awarded,” Murphy & Evertz E-Alert (December 3, 2010).
  • Co-Author, “Inverse Condemnation: Does a Buyer’s Prior Knowledge Mean No Recovery?,” Murphy & Evertz E-Alert (May 14, 2010).
  • “Ready . . . Fire . . . Aim!: California Appeals Court Rejects Vague and Overbroad Resolutions of Necessity” – Luce Forward Legal e-Update (February 20, 2009).
  • “California Appeals Court Holds City Liable for ‘Temporary’ Development Ban,” Luce Forward Legal e-Update (October 8, 2008).
  • “Proper Dates of Value in Eminent Domain: The Waters Get Less Muddy – California Supreme Court Orders RV Communities Depublished,” Luce Forward Eminent Domain and Condemnation E-Update (March 21, 2008).
  • “Temporary Severance Damages Only to Compensate for Actual Damages,” Luce Forward Eminent Domain and Condemnation E-Update (March 7, 2008).
  • “County’s Alleged Breach of Contract Does Not Equal Condemnation,” Luce Forward Eminent Domain and Condemnation E-Update (February 25, 2008).

Bar Admissions

  • California, 1980
  • U.S. District Court Central District of California
  • U.S. District Court Eastern District of California
  • U.S. District Court Southern District of California
  • U.S. Court of Appeals 9th Circuit

Other Affiliations

  • American Inns of Court, Warren J. Ferguson Inn, President (2005-2006); Vice President (2004-2005); Treasurer (2003);
  • Fellow, American Bar Foundation (2006-present)
  • International Right-of-Way Association - Chapter 67, President (2000); President-Elect (1999); Executive Board (1996-Present); Newsletter Editor (1996-1998); Member (1993-Present)
  • International Right-of-Way – Chapters 57, 67 and 1
  • Lambda Alpha (Honorary Real Estate Fraternity)
  • Orange County Bar Foundation (Board of Directors)
  • Appraisal Institute, Affiliate
  • Orange County Superior Court, Arbitrator (1985 – 2008)
  • Chapman University Law School, Board of Visitors (2003 – 2011)

Fraternities and Sororities

  • Lambda Alpha

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Costa Mesa, CA

650 Town Center Drive
Suite 550
Costa Mesa, CA 92626

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Phone: 714-277-1700

Fax: 714-277-1777

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Website: https://www.murphyevertz.com

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