You would need to obtain a circuit court judgment recognizing that you have established title to the property. There are many elements to adverse possession and, as the claimant, you would have the burden of proving each of them by clear and cogent proof. If the land involved abuts other land to which you hold title, you should consider a claim for acquiescence as an alternative. It is easier to prove, if the conditions are right.
Because adverse possession and acquiescence are fact-intensive, they can be expensive suits to take all the way through trial, for both sides. Unfortunately, they are difficult to settle short of that. Emotions often run high and opposing sides often strongly believe different facts.
You will definitely need the help of an attorney and most likely a surveyor. I would pick an attorney with experience in such cases, preferably in the area in which the land is located, and, if a surveyor will be needed as an expert, let that attorney pick a surveyor he or she thinks will best understand the case and be able to testify to the court.
Answered on May 13th, 2019 at 6:23 AM