What term describes the acquisition of title to property through wrongful possession if certain statutory requirements are satisfied?

The term that describes the acquisition of title to property through wrongful possession, provided that certain statutory requirements are met, is adverse possession. Adverse possession allows an individual to claim ownership of land under specific conditions, which typically include continuous and open possession of the property for a statutory period, without the consent of the original owner. The idea behind this legal principle is to encourage the productive use of land and to provide a clear title to properties that have been neglected or abandoned.

For example, if someone openly occupies a piece of land and meets the necessary criteria for a specific period, they may be able to gain legal ownership of that property, even if they do not hold the original title. This concept serves to resolve disputes over property boundaries and ownership, ensuring that land is utilized effectively.

The other terms provided, such as possessory title or claimed title, do not specifically refer to the legal doctrine governing the acquisition of property through adverse possession. Similarly, encroachment refers to a situation where one party unlawfully extends their property boundaries onto a neighbor's land, but does not convey the idea of acquiring legal title through wrongful possession.