Adverse Possession

Adverse possession is a legal doctrine that allows a person to claim ownership of land they do not legally own if they meet specific conditions over a set period of time. This typically requires using the land openly and without permission, consistently, and in a manner that excludes others from using it (like paying property taxes). If the original owner does not take action to reclaim the property during this time, the person occupying the land may gain legal title to it, essentially rewarding long-term occupancy over inattention by the original owner.