What does an adverse possession claim allow?

An adverse possession claim allows an individual to claim ownership of land that has been occupied without the permission of the original owner. This legal doctrine is based on the idea that when someone uses land openly, continuously, and without the owner's consent for a certain period, they may gain legal title to that land.

For adverse possession to be successful, the possession must typically meet several criteria, which include being continuous, exclusive, open and notorious, and hostile to the interests of the true owner. By occupying the land in this manner, the individual effectively demonstrates a claim to the property that, over time, can result in a legal change of ownership if all legal requirements are satisfied.

In contrast, other choices do not accurately describe the nature of adverse possession. Taking over governmental property is generally not permissible under adverse possession, and purchasing land below market value is unrelated to the concept of adverse possession. Likewise, gaining rights to land held by a family member would fall under inheritance or familial rights and does not pertain to adverse possession principles.