What is the primary purpose of adverse possession?

The primary purpose of adverse possession is to claim ownership of land through continuous possession. Adverse possession allows a person to gain legal title to property if they occupy it openly, continuously, and without the owner's permission for a statutory period, which in Florida typically lasts for seven years. This legal doctrine encourages the productive use of land, discouraging property from being left idle, and helps resolve disputes over land ownership by providing a clear title to the occupant who has demonstrated legitimate use and possession over time.

The concept emphasizes the importance of actual possession and the notion that land should not remain abandoned or unutilized, thus serving a broader purpose in promoting certainty in property rights and land use.