Ohio Land Title Association – Title Agent Practice Exam 2025 - Free Title Agent Practice Questions and Study Guide

In Ohio, the term "Dower" refers specifically to the legal interest a spouse acquires in the property of the other spouse upon marriage. This concept historically ensures that a surviving spouse has a right to a portion of the deceased spouse's property, providing protection and economic security. In essence, it grants a non-owning spouse a legal claim or interest in property, recognizing the contributions that each spouse makes to the marriage, both financially and otherwise.

This is significant in the context of property rights and inheritance laws, especially because it impacts how property is distributed upon death or divorce. Dower rights exist to safeguard against the complete dispossession of a spouse's property interest solely because of the marriage laws or the actions of the owning spouse.

Adverse possession, easements by necessity, and easements in gross describe different legal concepts related to land use or ownership rights but do not relate to the marital rights concerning a spouse's property in Ohio. Adverse possession relates to how a person can gain legal title to property through continuous and open use without permission over a designated period. Easements by necessity refer to a legal right of access to property that cannot be accessed without crossing another's land, and easements in gross pertain to privileges granted to individuals