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Thomas Kemp and Nicholas Bartlett Secure Victory for Farmer in Lease Dispute
In a decisive victory for an Eastman & Smith client, a Northwest Ohio jury found the heir of a landowner was bound by a lease agreement established between the decedent and a local farmer, despite the change in property ownership.
The farmer entered into a lease agreement with the owner of farmland which permitted him to cultivate the land for a specified period of time. Unfortunately, during the lease agreement, the landowner passed away. The property was divided between two heirs. One honored the lease agreement. After a year of receiving rent payments, the other heir informed the farmer they no longer intended to lease the property.
Eastman & Smith attorneys Thomas P. Kemp and Nicholas W. Bartlett successfully argued that the defendant was bound by the lease. The jury awarded damages to the farmer in excess of $40,000.
While ultimately successful, this matter highlights the need for farmers who lease farmland to have those leases reviewed to ensure their rights are protected. Should you have any questions concerning such lease agreements, and whether your rights are adequately protected, please contact Mr. Kemp or Mr. Bartlett.