What is the meaning of ouster in the context of co-ownership?

In the context of co-ownership, "ouster" specifically refers to the wrongful exclusion of a co-owner from possession or enjoyment of the property. This means that if one co-owner attempts to take exclusive control over the shared property without the consent of the other co-owners, it constitutes an ouster. The key aspect of this concept is that it involves claiming exclusive possession in a manner that is not lawful or cooperative, violating the rights of the other co-owners to share in the property.

Understanding ouster is crucial in co-ownership situations, as it can lead to legal disputes and potential claims for damages or corrective actions by the excluded co-owner. By recognizing that ouster is associated with wrongful exclusion, it becomes clear why this choice accurately captures the meaning of the term in this legal context.