What legal concept allows for a right to use land that is only valid during a person’s lifetime?

The concept that allows for a right to use land valid only during a person’s lifetime is known as a life estate. In this arrangement, the individual, often referred to as the "life tenant," holds the right to use and possess the property for the duration of their life. Upon the death of the life tenant, the property interest does not pass to their heirs but instead reverts back to the original grantor or passes to a designated third party, known as the "remainder beneficiary."

This legal structure is significant because it creates a distinct, limited interest in the property that contrasts with more permanent forms of ownership, such as a fee simple estate. A fee simple estate grants the owner complete and indefinite ownership, potentially passing on to heirs, while the life estate is inherently temporary. This is also different from leasehold estates, which encompass the rental of property for a specified period, and easements in gross, which provide a right to use the land without transferring an ownership interest or being tied to a life span.

In summary, the life estate emphasizes the temporary nature of ownership tied to an individual's life, marking it as the correct choice for a right that is strictly valid during a person's lifetime.