The Squatter's Tale

[Verse 1] There was a piece of land, down by old oak tree Someone else's property, far as eyes could see But twenty years I worked it, plain for all to know Now the law says part of it's mine, let me tell you how it goes [Chorus] Hostile and actual, open and notorious Continuous possession, that's the legal story for us Add in exclusive use, and time must run its course These elements combined, they call adverse possession's force [Verse 2] Hostile means I claimed it, though it wasn't mine No permission asked for, crossed that legal line Actual possession means I used it like my own Built fences, planted gardens, made this place my home [Verse 3] Open and notorious, there ain't no mystery Everyone could see me, clear as clear could be Continuous means I stayed there, through summer, fall and spring Statutory period passed, while time did its thing [Verse 4] Exclusive use means others, I kept them all away Just like a true owner would, each and every day The true owner never stopped me, all those years gone past Now the law of adverse possession says this land is mine at last [Bridge] Time requirements vary, by state they're not the same Some say twenty years must pass, others fifteen to stake your claim But all these elements must be met, that's the golden rule Missing just a single one, and your case ain't worth a tool [Final Chorus] Hostile and actual, open and notorious Continuous possession, that's the legal story for us Add in exclusive use, and time must run its course Now you know how squatter's rights become the legal source [Outro] So mind your property well, check it every year 'Cause adverse possession's working, even if you're not right here