Final answer:
Generally, one cannot refuse to sell their property if the government exercises eminent domain and offers just compensation, unless specific legal exceptions apply.
Step-by-step explanation:
In the context of U.S. law, eminent domain is the power of the government to take private property for public use, while the Takings Clause of the Fifth Amendment mandates that property cannot be taken without providing just compensation to the owner.
Answering the question, an individual can only refuse to sell their property in specific cases where government acquisition does not meet legal requirements, or the offer is not considered just compensation.
Generally, refusal to sell to the government is not an option if the land is to be used for a verified public use and a fair price is offered.
The courts have upheld the rights of governments to exercise eminent domain for public good, which includes infrastructural projects, community facilities, and economic developments that benefit the public.