Lappage is a legal term that describes a situation where two parties claim overlapping rights to the same piece of land. This occurs when one person asserts ownership based on a deed, while another person claims part of the same land under a different grant. Essentially, lappage arises from conflicting property boundaries as outlined in the respective deeds.
Lappage is primarily relevant in property law, particularly in disputes over land ownership. It can arise in various legal contexts, including civil litigation regarding real estate. Users may encounter situations involving lappage when dealing with property transactions, boundary disputes, or inheritance issues. Legal forms related to property claims and boundary agreements can assist individuals in managing these situations effectively.
Here are a couple of examples of abatement:
Example 1: A homeowner discovers that their neighbor has built a fence that encroaches on their property. Both homeowners have deeds that describe their property lines, but the descriptions overlap, leading to a lappage situation.
Example 2: Two siblings inherit adjacent parcels of land from their parents. Upon reviewing the deeds, they find that the descriptions of their properties overlap, creating a potential conflict over ownership rights. (hypothetical example)
Examples of state differences (not exhaustive):
| State | Legal Approach to Lappage |
|---|---|
| California | California law allows for resolution through boundary line agreements. |
| Texas | Texas courts may require surveys to clarify overlapping claims. |
| Florida | Florida recognizes adverse possession claims that may arise from lappage. |
This is not a complete list. State laws vary, and users should consult local rules for specific guidance.
| Term | Definition | Difference |
|---|---|---|
| Adverse possession | A legal doctrine allowing a person to claim ownership of land under certain conditions. | Involves continuous possession and use, unlike lappage, which focuses on overlapping claims. |
| Boundary dispute | A disagreement between parties regarding the location of property lines. | Boundary disputes may lead to lappage but are not limited to overlapping claims. |
If you find yourself in a situation involving lappage, consider the following steps:
Browse our library of 85,000+ state-specific legal templates.
Review your deed and consult a real estate attorney for guidance on resolving the issue.