What is the definition of "adverse possession"?

Adverse possession is recognized as a legal doctrine that enables an individual to claim ownership of land if they have occupied it in a certain manner over a specified period, typically without the permission of the original owner. This doctrine serves as a means to encourage productive land use and can resolve disputes regarding property boundaries. For a claim of adverse possession to be successful, the possession must generally be open, notorious, exclusive, and continuous, along with other criteria that may vary by jurisdiction.

This legal principle highlights the importance of asserting property rights; if the true owner fails to take action against someone who is occupying their land, that occupying party might eventually gain legal title to it. Thus, the correct answer underscores the core definition of adverse possession as a means for individuals to establish rights to property under certain conditions, reflecting a significant aspect of property law.