Define: Natural Possession

Natural Possession
Natural Possession
Quick Summary of Natural Possession

Natural possession is the act of having or holding property and having control over it. It grants the right to exclusively use and benefit from a physical or legal object. This can be demonstrated by paying property taxes or granting rights of interest in the property. Natural possession can lead to a claim of unlawful possession or a claim of ownership through acquisitive prescription. It is also referred to as corporeal possession.

Full Definition Of Natural Possession

Natural possession refers to the act of having or holding property and exercising control over it. It grants the right to exclusively control something and maintain a claim to its exclusive use. For instance, if you own a car and store it in your garage, you possess it naturally. In civil law, natural possession involves detaining or using a physical object with the intention of claiming it as your own. This can lead to a claim of unlawful possession or ownership through acquisitive prescription. For example, if you occupy a building or cultivate farmland without legal title, you may have natural possession of the property. Another form of natural possession is when a person physically occupies or controls a property, known as actual possession. This differs from constructive possession, which entails control or dominion over a property without physically possessing or having custody of it.

Natural Possession FAQ'S

Natural possession refers to the physical control or occupation of a property or object without any legal title or ownership rights. It is based on the principle that the person who has physical possession of something is presumed to be the rightful owner.

No, natural possession alone does not grant legal ownership rights. It is merely a presumption of ownership, which can be challenged by someone with a superior legal claim.

The duration of possession required to claim ownership through natural possession varies depending on the jurisdiction. In some places, it may be as short as a few years, while in others, it could be several decades.

No, natural possession typically applies to situations where a person physically occupies a property without any legal agreement or permission from the owner. If you are renting a property, your possession is based on a contractual agreement, not natural possession.

If someone challenges your natural possession claim, they will need to provide evidence of a superior legal right to the property. This could include proof of ownership, a valid lease agreement, or any other legal document establishing their right to the property.

Yes, in some cases, natural possession can be used to claim ownership of abandoned property. However, the specific laws regarding abandoned property and natural possession vary by jurisdiction, so it is important to consult with a legal professional to understand the requirements in your area.

No, you cannot sell a property that you possess through natural possession because you do not have legal ownership rights. Only the legal owner of a property has the authority to sell it.

No, natural possession cannot be used to claim ownership of stolen property. If you knowingly possess stolen property, you could face criminal charges, and the rightful owner can reclaim their property.

No, natural possession cannot be used to claim ownership of public property. Public property is owned by the government or a public entity and cannot be acquired through natural possession.

No, natural possession does not apply to intellectual property rights. Intellectual property, such as copyrights, patents, or trademarks, is protected by specific laws and regulations, and ownership is established through legal registration and documentation.

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Disclaimer

This site contains general legal information but does not constitute professional legal advice for your particular situation. Persuing this glossary does not create an attorney-client or legal adviser relationship. If you have specific questions, please consult a qualified attorney licensed in your jurisdiction.

This glossary post was last updated: 16th April 2024.

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