Squat Long Enough And Thou Shall Be Rewarded

We’re guessing the Kirlins won’t be baking fresh cookies for their south Boulder neighbors of more than 25 years anytime soon. The Kirlins, Don and Susie, just lost about a third of a 4,750-square-foot parcel behind their home on Hardscrabble Drive. The reason: adverse possession. Neighbors Richard McLean and Edith Stevens proved they used the land as a shortcut to their property for at least 18 years, while the Kirlins never touched the vacant parcel. A judge ruled that this obscure law essentially gave the neighbors squatter’s rights.

What’s Next: The Kirlins will appeal the decision, and we hope the state legislature is taking notice and changes this archaic law.