Adverse Possession
A method of acquisition of title to real property by possession for a statutory period under certain conditions. It has been described as a statutory method of acquiring title to land by limitation. In order to establish title in this manner there must be proof of non-permissive use which is actual, open, notorious, exclusive and adverse for the statutorily established period. State statutes differ with respect to the required length of time. There may be different period of times within a state depending on the color of title and whether or not taxes have been paid.