Actual possession refers to the physical control or occupancy of a property or item. This means that a person has direct, tangible control over something, such as holding a book in their hands or living in a house. Actual possession is often contrasted with other forms of possession, like constructive possession, where a person may not physically hold an item but has the legal right to control it. In legal contexts, actual possession can be important for determining ownership rights or responsibilities. For example, if someone is found in actual possession of a vehicle, they may be presumed to have the right to use it, unless proven otherwise. This concept is crucial in property law and criminal law, where possession can influence legal outcomes.