Legal ownership refers to the recognized right of an individual or entity to possess, use, and control a specific asset or property. This ownership is established through legal documents, such as titles or deeds, which provide proof of ownership. Legal owners have the authority to make decisions regarding the asset, including selling, leasing, or modifying it. In many jurisdictions, legal ownership is protected by laws that ensure the owner's rights are upheld. This means that others cannot interfere with the owner's use of the property without permission. Legal ownership can apply to various assets, including real estate, vehicles, and intellectual property like patents or trademarks.