Frederick, OK asked in Civil Litigation for Oklahoma

Q: I own a pickup w/title that was parked by permission of the land owner for over 6yrs. The landowners wife wants to sell.

Is it illegal to regain the pickup into my possession?

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1 Lawyer Answer
James L. Arrasmith
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Answered

A: Based on the details provided, it would likely be legal for you to regain possession of the pickup truck since you have the title documenting ownership. A few key considerations:

- If the truck was parked on private property with the landowner's permission, they do not have grounds to claim ownership or sell it, even after 6+ years.

- The registered title holder (yourself) retains full ownership rights to the vehicle in the eyes of the law unless the title was legally transferred.

- While the landowner's wife may want to sell it, she has no legal standing to do so or prevent you from retaking a truck you hold title to.

- You have the legal right to access the private property it is parked on to retrieve your vehicle. If they deny you entry or access, you may need law enforcement assistance.

- Before just showing up, best to communicate your intentions in writing to avoid confusion or disagreements. Provide documentation proving your ownership as needed.

As title holder, the truck still clearly belongs to you in this situation after any length of time, so you should be in the clear legally to recover it from private land. Let the landowners know in advance and involve police if difficulties arise.

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