What does the term “adverse possession” refer to in Minnesota law?

The term “adverse possession” in Minnesota law specifically refers to the legal concept that allows a person to claim ownership of land after using it continuously and openly without the permission of the original owner for a certain period of time. This concept is based on the idea that the true owner has neglected to assert their rights over the property for an extended duration, while the individual using the land has treated it as their own.

In Minnesota, certain criteria must be met for a successful claim of adverse possession, including continuous and uninterrupted use of the property, the use must be open and notorious so that the original owner is aware of it, and the use must be adverse to the interests of the true owner, meaning that it is without their permission. This serves to encourage the productive use of land and deter landowners from neglecting their property rights.

The other choices do not accurately represent adverse possession. For example, the second option mentions a method of transferring property ownership through a written contract, which relates to standard property transactions rather than adverse possession. The third option refers to obtaining ownership through auction, which is a distinct process not connected to adverse possession. Lastly, the fourth option discusses a legal right to use someone else's property, which does not encompass the ownership