Jillian Friess Leivas

Jillian focuses her practice on eminent domain and inverse condemnation, real property litigation and land use. She represents public agencies in large-scale infrastructure projects, including road, railway, light rail, bus rapid transit, bike way and gas, electrical and water utility projects. Jillian handles complex acquisitions involving title issues, multiple ownership interests and coordination among numerous stakeholders. She advises clients throughout the condemnation process, including precondemnation planning and negotiations, acquisition strategy, litigation and trial preparation. Her experience includes drafting pleadings, motions and discovery, coordinating document reviews and productions with multiple team members, taking depositions, working with experts and preparing cases for trial.

In addition to eminent domain, Jillian represents both public and private clients with business and real property matters. She assists clients with a range of litigation issues, including commercial lease disputes, unlawful detainer actions, contract disputes and quiet title actions. Jillian also advises clients on land use and development issues, including title issues, zoning and permitting.

Jillian is an active member of the International Right of Way Association (IRWA), currently serving as President of Chapter 67 in Orange County. She was awarded the IRWA Region 1 Young Professional of the Year Award in 2024 and included in The Best Lawyers in America© for Real Estate Law in 2025.

Jillian regularly comments on news involving eminent domain issues on Nossaman’s Eminent Domain Report blog.

Publications

Blog Posts

Speaking Engagements

News

Community & Professional

International Right of Way Association – Chapter 67, Vice President

Honors & Recognitions

Included in The Best Lawyers in America^© for Real Estate Law, 2025

IRWA Region 1 Young Professional of the Year Award honoree, 2024