3 Elements of Possession

Re-stated for the examination as a structured list:1. Corpus possessionis (physical element): such control over the thing as the thing's nature allows — fencing land, locking a cycle, carrying a bag. What counts as control varies with the thing (control of a forest = habitation/use of it, not touching every tree).2. Animus possidendi (mental element): the intention to hold for oneself, on one's own account — excluding the intent of mere custody (holding for another) or of passage (passing through).3. (Some formulations add) corpus and animus must coalesce — the famous example: the traveller who sets down his suitcase on a station platform while buying tea does not lose possession; continuity of possession survives brief physical separation (see continuation below). Conversely, the thief acquires possession despite defective title — possession is a fact, not a right.