Legal Definitions - homestead-exemption statute

A homestead-exemption statute is a law that protects a person's home from being taken away to pay off debts, unless the property has been jointly mortgaged or subjected to creditors' claims by all owners, usually a husband and wife. This law is also known as a homestead law or homestead right.

For example, if a person owes money to a creditor, the creditor cannot take away their home to pay off the debt if the home is protected by a homestead-exemption statute. However, there are exceptions to this law, such as federal tax claims, state taxes, claims for alimony and child support, materialmen and mechanics' liens, and purchase money mortgages and security interests.

Homestead-exemption statutes are designed to protect a person's primary residence and provide them with a sense of security. They vary from state to state, and it is important to understand the specific laws in your state to ensure that your home is protected.