Lawrence v. Town of Concord

Perhaps as late as 1997, the town of Concord (town) became aware that it had received a specific devise of land located at 1586 Main Street in Concord (locus), under a will that was probated in 1942. Albert J. Lawrence claimed title to the same locus through a specific devise from Joseph Frazier *417(Frazier), a prior occupant of the locus whom Lawrence claims perfected title through adverse possession. The town’s response was to exercise its power of eminent domain as to the locus but pay Lawrence no damages. Lawrence brought an action for damages under G. L. c. 79, § 14.1

On cross motions for…