Section 15 Responsive Pleadings-Motions to Dismiss, Answers, and Counterclaims

• Library: Condemnation Practice 2009

Defendants in condemnation actions are not required to file responsive pleadings. Caruthersville Sch. Dist. No. 18 of Pemiscot County v. Latshaw, 233 S.W.2d 6 (Mo. 1950). SeeConduit Indus. Redevelopment Corp. v. Luebke, 397 S.W.2d 671 (Mo. 1965). While the condemning authority bears the burden of proof to establish each element of the condemnation action, a defendant can raise affirmative defenses or bring a motion to dismiss contesting the right to condemn. See, e.g., State ex rel. Mo. Highway & Transp....