What does a writ of attachment allow in the legal context?

A writ of attachment permits the seizure of a defendant's property prior to the court's judgment in order to secure a potential judgment. This legal instrument is commonly used in civil cases where a creditor seeks to ensure that assets remain available to satisfy a future judgment. The writ allows the court to place a hold on specific property in anticipation that the creditor will win the case and need to collect on the debt owed.

This mechanism acts as a protective measure to prevent the defendant from disposing of or hiding assets that could be used to fulfill a legal obligation if the plaintiff prevails. In contrast, the other options pertain to different scenarios involving property rights or lease agreements that do not align with the procedure or purpose of a writ of attachment. Understanding this concept is crucial for anyone studying real estate law, particularly as it relates to creditor-debtor relationships.