What term is used to describe a claim against someone's property to secure payment for a debt?

The term that describes a claim against someone's property to secure payment for a debt is a lien. A lien gives a creditor legal rights to the property if the debtor defaults on their obligation, effectively securing the creditor's interest in the property until the debt is satisfied.

A mortgage, while also related to property and securing debt, specifically refers to a loan used to purchase real estate, where the property itself acts as collateral for the loan. In this case, the lender holds a lien on the property until the mortgage is fully paid.

A judgment refers to a court's decision regarding a legal matter, such as a claim for damages, but it doesn't specify a claim against property itself. It may lead to a lien if the creditor obtains a judgment against the debtor, allowing them to pursue a claim against the debtor's property, but it is not the term describing the claim itself.

A deed represents ownership or the legal right to the property and does not imply any claim against the property itself. A deed transfers property ownership from one party to another and does not inherently create a security interest for debts.

Understanding the distinction between a lien and these other legal terms is crucial in the context of securing debts and the rights of creditors.