Recently, the Court of Cassation, with order No. 9063 of April 5, 2024, addressed a highly relevant issue in civil law: the presumption of good faith in matters of possession. This legal principle, fundamental for protecting the rights of possessors, was analyzed in the context of a dispute between the parties, Z. and F., before the Court of Appeal of Naples.
Good faith is an essential element in possession law, as it affects the protection afforded to possessors. According to the aforementioned order, good faith is subject to a presumption iuris tantum, meaning it is presumed until proven otherwise. This presumption is a principle established by the Italian Civil Code, specifically in Article 1147, which protects those who hold an asset as a legitimate possessor.
Possession - Good faith - Presumption iuris tantum - Rebuttal through presumptions or indications - Admissibility. In matters of possession, good faith is subject to a presumption iuris tantum, which can be overcome even through contrary presumptions and simple indications.
This maxim highlights the importance of good faith in possession law. The presumption of good faith is not absolute; it can be overcome by contrary evidence, which may consist of indications or circumstances demonstrating the possessor's bad faith. This flexibility in the rule allows the legal system to adapt to specific cases, ensuring a fair assessment of situations.
In conclusion, order No. 9063 of 2024 by the Court of Cassation reiterates the importance of the presumption of good faith in possession law, while at the same time acknowledging the possibility of overcoming it through contrary evidence. This balance between protecting the possessor and the need for material truth is crucial for ensuring justice in legal disputes. Legal professionals must pay close attention to this aspect, as a correct interpretation and application of the rule can make a difference in the outcome of a case.