What does the term "adverse possession" mean?

The term "adverse possession" refers to the process through which an individual can acquire legal title to a property by continuously occupying or using it for a specific period of time, as established by state laws. This method of gaining ownership usually requires that the possession be open and notorious, exclusive, actual, and hostile to the interests of the true owner. If these conditions are met, and the statutory time period passes, the possessor may claim legal title to the property despite not having purchased it or received the owner's consent.

This definition clearly relates to the requirement for continuous possession, which is a key aspect of adverse possession. The purpose of this legal principle is to promote the productive use of land, prevent disputes over land ownership, and provide a degree of certainty in property titles.

In contrast, the other choices do not accurately describe adverse possession. Obtaining title through a probate process involves transferring a deceased person's assets, while purchasing property at a tax sale is a method to acquire property after its owner has failed to pay taxes. Taking ownership of abandoned property does not necessarily follow the legal requirements of possession nor does it involve a statutory timeframe, which is essential in the context of adverse possession.