Legal Definitions - squatter's rights

Squatter's rights refer to the right to acquire ownership of a property through adverse possession or preemption of public lands. Adverse possession means using or enjoying a property with a claim of right that is continuous, exclusive, hostile, open, and notorious. In simpler terms, it means taking over someone else's property and using it as your own for a certain period of time, which can vary depending on the state or country.

For example, if someone moves into an abandoned house and lives there for a certain number of years without the owner's permission, they may be able to claim ownership of the property through adverse possession. However, this is a complicated legal process that requires meeting specific criteria and going through a court procedure.

Another example of squatter's rights is preemption of public lands, which means acquiring ownership of land that is owned by the government. This can happen if someone has been using the land for a certain period of time and meets certain requirements, such as paying taxes on the property.

Overall, squatter's rights are a controversial topic that can lead to legal disputes and challenges. It is important to understand the laws and regulations in your area before attempting to claim ownership of a property through adverse possession or preemption of public lands.