Which legal principle allows individuals in Texas to possess property, even without a title?

The legal principle that allows individuals in Texas to possess property without a title is known as adverse possession. This doctrine permits a person to claim ownership of land under certain conditions, even if they do not hold the legal title to it.

For an individual to successfully claim property through adverse possession in Texas, they must occupy the land in a way that is open and notorious, exclusive, actual, and continuous for a specific statutory period, which is typically ten years. This means that the person must use the land as if they are the owner, and their actions must be apparent to others. The rationale behind this principle is to encourage the productive use of land and to resolve disputes about property ownership.

In contrast, the other options do not pertain to the unauthorized possession of property. Necessity relates more to the ability to take certain actions to prevent harm, condemnation involves the government's right to take private property for public use with compensation, and an easement grants specific rights to use another’s property for a particular purpose, rather than allowing for ownership without a title.