Adverse Possession
Definition: Legal doctrine vesting title in long-term hostile possessors.
In depth
Adverse Possession is a doctrine under which a person occupying land openly, continuously, and hostilely for 12+ years (in private property) or 30+ years (against government) may acquire legal title. Advocates verifying title check for prolonged possession by non-owners; while adverse possession does not appear on the ROR, it is a litigation risk when the seller has not had physical possession for years.