Hugh M. Patton, Administrator and Hugh M. Patton and others, Heirs of Robert Patton (Appellants) brought a case against James Taylor, Administrator; James Taylor; John W. Tibbatts and Ann W., his wife; George T. Williamson and Jane M., his wife (Respondents). The Appellants argued that the Respondents had wrongfully taken possession of land owned by Robert Patton prior to his death in 1845 as well as other property belonging to him at the time of his death such as slaves, horses, cattle etc.. The Supreme Court held that although the deed was not recorded until after Robert's death it was still valid since he had been in possession for more than twenty years before passing away which gave him title under Virginia law at the time even without recording it with proper authorities. Furthermore they ruled that all personal property mentioned belonged solely to Robert when he died so should be passed on according to state laws governing inheritance rather than being divided among those who were living on or near said land during this period of time

In the dissenting opinion of this case, Justice McLean argued that the court should have considered a prior deed from Robert Patton to James Taylor as valid. He believed that it was an equitable transfer and had been accepted by both parties in good faith. Furthermore, he noted that there were no objections raised at the time of its execution or during subsequent years when it was recorded on public records. Therefore, Justice McLean concluded that if the deed was found to be invalid then all other deeds based upon it would also be rendered void which could lead to great confusion and uncertainty for those involved in future transactions with similar circumstances.