What is the term for a procedure that allows a plaintiff to secure a lien against a defendant's property?

The term that refers to a procedure allowing a plaintiff to secure a lien against a defendant's property is attachment. This legal mechanism enables the plaintiff to take possession of or otherwise encumber the defendant's property as a way to ensure that a potential judgment in the plaintiff's favor can be satisfied.

When an attachment occurs, the court effectively grants the plaintiff a right to the defendant's assets, which can then be seized or sold off to satisfy any financial judgments that may arise from a lawsuit. This action often serves as a protective measure for the plaintiff, ensuring that the defendant does not dispose of, transfer, or otherwise dilute their assets before the legal matter is resolved.

In contrast, foreclosure specifically deals with the process of reclaiming mortgaged property when the borrower fails to fulfill their mortgage obligations. Judgment refers to the court's final decision concerning the claims made in a lawsuit, while execution pertains to the enforcement of that judgment, such as garnishing wages or seizing property after a judgment is rendered.