What is the term for the continuous possession of another's land under a claim of right?

The term that refers to the continuous possession of another's land under a claim of right is known as adverse possession. This legal doctrine allows a person to claim ownership of land under certain conditions, which typically include continuous and open use of the property without permission from the original owner, and this use must generally be for a statutory period.

To establish a claim under adverse possession, the possessor must demonstrate that their possession is actual, open (not hidden), exclusive, hostile (without the consent of the true owner), and continuous for the required timeframe set by state law. Successfully claiming adverse possession can ultimately lead to a legal transfer of title from the original owner to the possessor. This principle aims to encourage the productive use of land and resolve conflicts over property ownership.

The other options, while related to property law, encompass different concepts. Open title pertains to the clarity of ownership without hidden claims; a prescriptive easement involves the right to use another person's land for a specific purpose, typically without claiming ownership; and an occupancy claim generally does not carry the legal implications that adverse possession does. Understanding these nuances is essential for grasping property law fundamentals in real estate.