What does possession refer to in legal terms?

Possession in legal terms encompasses both actual and constructive possession. Actual possession refers to having physical control of an item or property, while constructive possession involves having the power and intention to control it, even if it is not in the person's immediate physical control. This duality allows the law to recognize possession in situations where a person has the means to access or control an item, albeit indirectly.

For instance, someone may keep valuables in a safe deposit box. They do not have direct physical possession of those items, but they have constructive possession because they have the legal right and access to them. This concept is crucial in legal contexts such as property law and criminal law, particularly when determining ownership and liability.

Understanding possession as both actual and constructive provides a clearer framework for law enforcement and legal professionals when addressing issues related to ownership, control, and responsibility for items or properties involved in legal disputes or investigations.