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Under the theory of adverse possession, you can claim ownership of property that belongs to someone else. Under Texas law, your possession of the property must be exclusive, open, continuous, and without the permission of the property owner for 3-10 years, depending on the circumstances. [1] X Research source The property owner has 25 years in which to challenge your claim. You can file for adverse possession in Texas by filing a lawsuit in county court. Successful adverse possession claims are rare, and the evidentiary requirements are substantial, because adverse possession involves a court taking someone's property and giving it to someone else. [2] X Research source