Legal Definitions - architect's lien

An architect's lien is a legal claim that an architect can make against a property to ensure payment for their services. This means that if the property owner fails to pay the architect for their work, the architect can place a lien on the property, which can prevent the owner from selling or refinancing the property until the debt is paid.

An architect designs a new building for a property owner. The owner agrees to pay the architect $50,000 for their services, but after the work is completed, the owner refuses to pay. The architect can file an architect's lien against the property, which will prevent the owner from selling or refinancing the property until the debt is paid.

An archival copy is a backup copy of an original piece of software that is made by the consumer. This copy is made to ensure that the software can be restored if the original is lost or damaged. The owner of the software is allowed to make archival copies without infringing on the copyright of the software. However, if the owner transfers the original software, all archival copies must also be transferred or destroyed.

A computer owner purchases a new software program for $100. They make an archival copy of the software and store it in a safe place. A few months later, the original software is lost due to a computer malfunction. The owner can use the archival copy to restore the software without infringing on the copyright. However, if the owner decides to sell the original software, they must also transfer or destroy the archival copy.