What is a key characteristic of property that falls under adverse possession?

A key characteristic of property that falls under adverse possession is that it must be continuous for a minimum of 20 years. Adverse possession is a legal doctrine that allows a person to claim ownership of land under specific conditions, which typically include continuous, open, and notorious possession of the property without the permission of the original owner for a statutory period, often set at 20 years in many jurisdictions, including Maryland.

This duration is significant because it serves as a way to encourage the productive use of land while also providing a method for resolving disputes over property boundaries and ownership. The requirement for continuous use underscores the idea that the claimant must treat the land as their own, which contributes to the notion of establishing a right to it over time.

The other options do not accurately reflect the principles of adverse possession. A verbal agreement does not establish a legal claim to property under this doctrine; it instead relies on the actual possession of the land and the relationship between the possessor and the original owner. Charitable donations pertain to transfers of property and are unrelated to adverse possession claims, which involve unauthorized occupancy. Lastly, while adverse possession can occur with any type of property, it generally does not involve federal property, as different regulations apply to government-owned land.