In 1974, the Mansells built a garage with a dirt floor at the back of their property.

Question:

In 1974, the Mansells built a garage with a dirt floor at the back of their property. The structure went beyond the Mansells' property line and encroached approximately fourteen feet on the neighboring property. The neighbor knew of the encroachment and informally approved it, but did not transfer ownership of the property. In 2001, Betty Hunter bought the neighbor's property. The survey done at that time revealed the encroachment. In 2003, Hunter's attorney notified the Mansells about the encroachment, and the parties held some informal conversations but did not reach an agreement. In 2006, the Mansells installed a concrete foundation and ran electricity to the structure. Hunter then sought a declaratory judgment that she was the fee simple owner of the property partially covered by the garage that encroached on her property. She demanded the removal of the encroaching structure. The Mansells filed a counter claim, arguing that their possession of the property from 1974 to 2001 gave them ownership by adverse possession. The trial court held that the property still belonged to Hunter, but did not order removal of the garage. Hunter and Mrs. Mansells (whose husband had died in the meantime) both appealed. Did the open occupation of the property for twenty-eight years given Mansells title by adverse possession? Why or why not?
Fantastic news! We've Found the answer you've been seeking!

Step by Step Answer:

Related Book For  book-img-for-question

Business Law Text and Cases

ISBN: 978-1111929954

12th Edition

Authors: Kenneth W. Clarkson, Roger LeRoy Miller, Frank B. Cross

Question Posted: