Farmington Hills, Michigan Adverse Possession Lawyer
Last updated on November 24, 2025
Property ownership disputes can be complex, especially when they involve claims of adverse possession. Because these cases often hinge on detailed evidence, timelines and documentation, working with an experienced Farmington Hills adverse possession attorney is crucial. The right lawyer can help protect your property rights and guide you through Michigan’s strict requirements.
At Brown Borkowski & Morrow, we offer over 30 years of combined experience to every real estate litigation case we handle. Our attorneys are experienced, successful and responsive, committed to helping clients in Farmington Hills, Michigan, and throughout Oakland County resolve complex property line disputes and quiet title actions. We approach every case with professionalism and focus, helping ensure our clients understand their options and their path toward resolution.
What Is Adverse Possession?
Adverse possession allows a person to gain title to land they have openly occupied and used as their own for a specified period, without the owner’s permission. In Michigan, this period is 15 years. During that time, the possession must meet several specific legal requirements.
Essentially, if someone has been using a piece of land as if they owned it, such as maintaining it, building on it or fencing it off, they may eventually claim ownership through the court system. These claims can arise in boundary line disputes, particularly between neighbors or commercial property owners.
The Requirements For Adverse Possession In Michigan
For an adverse possession claim to succeed, several key elements must be proven. In Michigan, the possession must be:
- Actual: The person must physically use the property as an owner would.
- Open and notorious: The use must be visible and obvious, not secret or hidden.
- Exclusive: The person must possess the land without sharing control with others, including the true owner.
- Hostile: The possession must be without permission from the owner.
- Continuous for at least 15 years: The occupation must be unbroken throughout this statutory period.
These elements must be supported by evidence. Our skilled adverse possession lawyer in Farmington Hills can review the facts, gather records and determine if a valid claim exists. Because the law is strict and time-sensitive, seeking legal help early is vital.
Common Examples Of Adverse Possession
Adverse possession disputes can occur in both residential and commercial settings. Some of the most common examples include:
- Residential disputes: A homeowner builds a fence or driveway that extends beyond the true property line. If the other owner does nothing for years, the first homeowner may later claim ownership of that strip of land.
- Commercial properties: A business expands a parking lot or landscaping area into a neighboring parcel and maintains it as its own.
- Boundary errors: A survey reveals that a building, wall or utility structure sits on an adjacent lot due to an old mapping or measurement mistake.
Whether the issue involves a small backyard section or part of a commercial property, property line disputes can create long-term legal complications. Working with our experienced Farmington Hills adverse possession attorney helps ensure your rights are fully protected before valuable land changes hands.
How Our Attorneys Can Help With Adverse Possession Cases
Adverse possession cases require a detailed understanding of Michigan real estate laws, strong evidence and careful procedural handling. Our lawyers can help by:
- Evaluating the case: Reviewing property records, surveys and witness statements to see if the facts meet Michigan’s legal standards.
- Gathering evidence: Securing documentation such as tax payments, photographs and maintenance records that support or defend against a claim.
- Filing a quiet title action: Initiating a lawsuit to establish or dispute ownership of the property officially.
- Representing clients in court: Advocating effectively to prove or defend a claim during litigation.
- Negotiating settlements: Working toward mutually agreeable solutions to avoid lengthy legal battles when possible.
Every case is unique, and outcomes depend on the strength of the evidence and the skill of your real estate attorney. Our team has extensive courtroom experience handling adverse possession and boundary line disputes across Oakland County.
Why It Is Important To Hire The Right Lawyer
Property disputes can impact ownership, the value and usability of your land. Having the right adverse possession lawyer helps ensure your case is handled efficiently and strategically. You need a Farmington Hills attorney who understands Michigan property law and the local court systems in Oakland County.
Choosing a lawyer familiar with the area means they understand regional land use patterns, local ordinances and how nearby courts interpret property disputes. This local insight can give you a significant advantage in building a strong case.
Protect Your Property Rights Today
At Brown Borkowski & Morrow, we help protect property owners throughout Farmington Hills, Michigan, and surrounding communities. With over 30 years of combined experience, we deliver clear communication, strategic representation and a results-driven approach to every case.
If you believe you may have an adverse possession issue or if someone is making a claim against your property, call 888-757-1681 or fill out our contact form to arrange for a consultation.