adversarial possession

Adversarial possession refers to a legal claim to land or property that is established by openly occupying it without the owner's permission, in a manner that is hostile, continuous, and exclusive for a certain period, as defined by law. This means the person claiming ownership has used the property as if they were the true owner, despite lacking official title. If they can demonstrate this consistent use over time, they may obtain legal rights to the property, even against the actual owner’s wishes. This principle often arises in disputes over property boundaries or land ownership.