What is the duration of the common law period for adverse possession in Delaware?

In Delaware, the common law period for adverse possession is indeed 20 years. This legal doctrine allows a person to claim ownership of a property if they have openly and continuously occupied it without the permission of the actual owner for the statutory period, which is established to encourage land use and settlement.

The rationale behind a 20-year requirement is rooted in the principle of promoting land productivity and resolving uncertainties in land ownership. After this period, if the possession meets specific conditions—such as being continuous, actual, open, and notorious—the possessor may file a claim to have the property title transferred to them, effectively allowing them to gain legal rights to the land despite the original owner’s claims.

Other durations mentioned in the choices do not apply to Delaware law; thus, they are not applicable in this context. This understanding is crucial for anyone studying property law and adverse possession within Delaware, providing a framework for recognizing how long a person must possess a property to potentially claim it legally.