Q: Can property be declared as one's own after 20 years of possession in Michigan?
I would like to know if someone can declare a property as their own if they have had possession of it for 20 years, without any documentation or legal actions currently related to the property.
A: Yes, if the elements required for adverse possession are met. The basic elements are open, notorious and hostile. Thus for example, if you occupy property with the permission of the owner, your possession is not hostile. We would need more facts to comment on your particular situation.
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