Adverse possession is the legal principle that allows someone who openly occupies land for long enough to claim ownership. And it is one of the most misunderstood areas of Virginia property law. Whether you need to assert an adverse possession claim or defend against one, Fidelis Law, PLC has the experience to protect your interests.
How Adverse Possession Works in Virginia
Under Virginia law, a person who occupies someone else's land openly, continuously, exclusively, and without the owner's permission for a period of 15 years may be able to claim legal ownership of that land through adverse possession. But the occupation must be "hostile" — meaning without the owner's permission — and must be visible enough that a reasonable owner would know someone is claiming the property.
In practice, adverse possession cases in Southwest Virginia often arise from old fence lines that don't match the deed, family members who have farmed or lived on a portion of land for generations without formal title, or neighbors who have treated a strip of land as their own for decades.
Virginia's adverse possession period is 15 years. If someone has been openly occupying a portion of your land for an extended time, the clock may already be running. An attorney consultation now can help you understand your exposure and your options.
We Represent Both Claimants and Landowners
We represent clients on both sides of adverse possession disputes:
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Claiming ownership through long-term occupation
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Defending your titled land against adverse claims
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Interrupting an adverse possession period
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Quiet title actions to clear ownership
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Disputes arising from old fence lines
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Family land divisions and informal transfers
If you believe someone may be developing an adverse possession claim to your property — or if you've occupied land you believe you've earned the right to own — contact us to discuss your situation before more time passes.
Local Knowledge That Matters in Court
Adverse possession cases in Southwest Virginia frequently involve tracing land use and occupancy back many years — sometimes decades. That requires digging into courthouse records, old deeds, and in some cases, family histories. Attorney Taylor Corbett's background researching property records throughout this region means he understands how to build — and challenge — the historical evidence these cases require.