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Vocabulary : Sayings : P : Possession is nine points of the law

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Possession is nine points of the law

Possible interpretation: This saying suggests that the person who physically has ownership of something is in a stronger legal position than someone who claims to be the owner.

Note: nine points = nine tenths or 90% | In fact, this idea has no real basis in Law.

Quick Quiz:

If "possession is nine points of the law", which of the following people might be considered to be in the strongest position legally? Someone who
  1. has $1000 in cash in his safe at home
  2. claims to be the owner of the $1000 but doesn't have the cash
  3. can prove he used to have the same $1000 in cash at home

Discuss: Possession is nine points of the law

Saying of the Day

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