Adverse possession is a legal doctrine that allows a person to claim ownership of land under certain conditions. To successfully acquire property through adverse possession, the individual must occupy the land openly, continuously, and without the permission of the original owner for a specific period, which varies by jurisdiction. This process typically requires the possessor to demonstrate that their use of the land is exclusive and hostile, meaning it contradicts the rights of the true owner. If these criteria are met, the possessor may eventually gain legal title to the property, effectively transferring ownership from the original owner.