An abstract of judgment is a formal summary of a court’s judgment that can be recorded in the public records. In practical terms, it helps put others on notice of the judgment and may create or support a judgment lien against a debtor’s real property.

An acceleration clause is a contract provision that allows the lender or other party to demand the entire remaining balance immediately if there is a default or another triggering event. In plain English, it means missed payments or a breach can make the full amount come due at once.

An ad valorem tax is a tax based on the value of the property being taxed. In real estate, this usually means property taxes assessed according to the property’s appraised value.

A way of acquiring ownership of property by using it openly, continuously, and without permission for a legally required period of time. If all legal requirements are met, the person in possession may claim title to the property.

A defense raised by a defendant that, even if the plaintiff’s claims are true, provides a legal reason why the defendant should not be held liable (for example, statute of limitations or waiver).

An affidavit of heirship is a sworn statement used to identify a deceased person’s heirs, often when property needs to be transferred and no formal probate has been opened. In Texas, the Estates Code specifically provides for an affidavit concerning the identity of heirs and recognizes its use in property matters.

An agent is a person authorized to act on behalf of another person or business in legal, financial, or business matters. In simple terms, the agent is someone with authority to act for someone else.

The defendant’s formal response to a lawsuit. It addresses the allegations made in the petition and may include defenses. Failing to file an answer on time can result in a default judgment.

An appraisal is a professional opinion of value for property, a business, or another asset. In real estate, it is commonly used to help determine market value for a sale, loan, tax issue, or dispute.

An appurtenance is a right, privilege, or improvement that belongs to and passes with the property, such as an easement, driveway rights, or certain water rights. Put simply, it is something tied to the property that goes along with it.

Arbitration is a method of resolving disputes outside of court in which a neutral third party hears the case and makes a decision. In many situations, the parties agree in advance by contract to use arbitration instead of going to court.

An assignment is the transfer of rights or interests from one person or party to another. For example, a contract, lease, or other legal right may be assigned if the law and the agreement allow it.

Assumption means one person agrees to take on a legal obligation that originally belonged to someone else. In real estate, it often refers to taking over responsibility for an existing loan or mortgage.

“As-is” means property is being sold in its current condition, with the buyer accepting the property with its existing defects or issues unless the agreement says otherwise. In plain English, it signals that the seller is not promising to fix problems before closing.

An attorney-in-fact is an agent authorized to act on behalf of another person under a power of attorney. An attorney-in-fact does not have to be a lawyer; it simply means the person has been given authority to act for the principal.