Legal Definitions - writ of execution

A writ of execution is a legal order issued by a court that instructs law enforcement officials to take action to enforce a judgment that has been won by the plaintiff. This order is usually directed towards a sheriff, who is responsible for carrying out the order.

For example, if a plaintiff wins a judgment against a defendant for unpaid debts, the court may issue a writ of execution that directs the sheriff to seize the defendant's property in order to satisfy the debt. The sheriff may then hold a public auction, known as a Sheriff's sale, to sell the seized property and use the proceeds to pay off the debt.

Another example of a writ of execution is when a landlord wins a judgment against a tenant for unpaid rent. The court may issue a writ of execution that directs the sheriff to evict the tenant and seize any property belonging to the tenant in order to satisfy the debt.

In summary, a writ of execution is a powerful legal tool that allows a plaintiff to enforce a judgment by directing law enforcement officials to take action against the defendant's property.