He who is first in time is stronger in right.

Explanation

Priority of claim establishes superiority of right — the earlier right prevails over the later, absent fraud or forfeiture.

Where this applies

• I found unclaimed land and settled on it before anyone else.
• I picked up items that were clearly abandoned on public land.

See also

• 5.1.7 When the parties are equal in right, the condition of the possessor is the better.
• 5.2.9 Prescription is a title derived from use and time, having the force of law.