Lecture 1: Foundations of Property Law
I. Introduction to Property Law
Definition and Importance of Property Law
Types of Property: Real Property versus Personal Property
Tangible and Intangible Property: Examples and Key Differences
Overview of Property Rights: Bundle of Rights Theory
II. Historical Context and Evolution
Common Law Roots of Property Law
Feudal System and Its Influence on Modern Property Rights
Development of Property Rights in the United States
Landmark Historical Cases Shaping Property Law
III. Acquisition of Property
First Possession: Theories and Examples (e.g., Pierson v. Post)
Adverse Possession
Elements: Open, Notorious, Continuous, Exclusive, and Hostile
Policy Justifications and Criticisms
Discovery, Capture, and Creation Principles
Gift Transfers: Intent, Delivery, and Acceptance
IV. Key Doctrines and Concepts
Doctrine of Estates and Future Interests
Fee Simple, Life Estates, Fee Tail, and Defeasible Estates
Reversions and Remainders
Rule Against Perpetuities: Purpose and Challenges
Joint Tenancy and Tenancy in Common: Characteristics and Distinctions
