Color of Title

In real estate law, color of title refers to a claim to ownership that appears to be valid based on a written document, such as a deed or court judgment, but is legally defective and does not convey true title. The defect may arise from issues such as improper execution, incorrect descriptions, or lack of authority by the grantor. Although color of title does not provide actual ownership rights, it can have legal significance in certain situations, such as supporting a claim of adverse possession when accompanied by continuous and open possession of the property for the required statutory period.