If two parties claim severalty ownership of the same property, how will a court typically decide the matter?

In cases where two parties assert severalty ownership of the same property, courts generally lean on the principle of determining who holds the best evidence of ownership. This typically involves a close examination of the documentation supporting each party's claim, such as deeds, title records, and other relevant legal documents.

The concept of "best evidence" is crucial because it refers to the idea that a party's legally recognized documents and proof of purchase or transfer of ownership will carry significant weight in court. The court aims to determine legitimacy based on the strength of the evidence presented—this could include who legally acquired the property first, any registered titles, or any other documents that signify ownership and rights to the property.

Using a bill of sale, considering payment history, or negotiating a settlement might be relevant in other contexts or disputes, but they do not directly address the fundamental legal principle of evidencing ownership. Therefore, the focus on the best evidence in this scenario dictates how ownership disputes are approached in legal contexts.