Legal Marketing Blog | Expert Insights for Attorneys | Attorneys.Media Resource

Patent Document with Official Seal and Ribbon

What is a patent?

March 26, 2026 • By Jack Gilbert

A patent is a government-granted property right that lets an inventor exclude others from making, using, selling, or importing an invention for up to 20 years from filing (utility). In exchange, the inventor publicly discloses how the invention works. This article explains patent basics, how patents work, and key types and requirements. A patent is […]

Intellectual Property Concept with Lightbulb and Copyright Symbol

Intellectual Property Intellectual Property Law

What is intellectual property?

March 26, 2026 • By Jack Gilbert

Intellectual property is a legal term for creations of the mind protected by law, most commonly grouped into 4 types: patents, trademarks, copyrights, and trade secrets. These rights let creators control use, licensing, and enforcement of their inventions, brands, and original works. This article defines IP, explains each category, and outlines basic protections and examples. […]

Real Estate Closing Documents and Keys on Table

Housing & Real Estate Law Real Estate Law

What is a real estate closing?

March 26, 2026 • By Jack Gilbert

A real estate closing is the final meeting where ownership transfers and the buyer and seller sign documents and exchange funds, typically 30–60 days after the contract. It finalizes the deed and title transfer and delivers keys to the buyer. This article explains the closing timeline, key steps, and what to expect at settlement. A […]

House Keys Exchanging Hands with Contract

Housing & Real Estate Real Estate Law

What is escrow?

March 26, 2026 • By Jack Gilbert

Escrow is a financial arrangement where a neutral third party holds funds or property until the contract’s conditions are met. It reduces risk for both sides by ensuring payment and transfer happen only when agreed terms are satisfied. This article explains how escrow works, who’s involved, and common escrow accounts in transactions. Understanding Escrow: A […]

Property Tax Assessment Document with Calculator

Real Estate Law Tax Law

What is a property tax assessment?

March 26, 2026 • By Jack Gilbert

A property tax assessment is a local government’s valuation of your property used to calculate your annual tax bill. Assessors estimate an assessed value based on market data, property features, and assessment rules, then apply the local tax rate. This article explains how assessments work, what affects value, and how to review or appeal. Understanding […]

Mechanic's Lien Documents and Construction Tools

Construction Law Property Law

What is a mechanic’s lien?

March 26, 2026 • By Jack Gilbert

A mechanic’s lien is a legal claim filed against real property to secure payment for unpaid construction labor or materials. Contractors, subcontractors, and suppliers use it to protect their right to get paid and can potentially force a sale if the debt isn’t resolved. This article explains how mechanic’s liens work, key deadlines, and options […]

Three People Discussing Property Ownership Documents

Landlord and Tenant Property Law

What is tenancy in common?

March 26, 2026 • By Jack Gilbert

Tenancy in common is a way for two or more people to own the same property with separate, potentially unequal shares, each of which can be sold or inherited. Unlike joint tenancy, it doesn’t include a right of survivorship, so an owner’s share typically passes through their estate. This article explains how tenancy in common […]

Joint Tenancy Property Ownership Diagram

Estate Planning Property Law

What is joint tenancy?

March 26, 2026 • By Jack Gilbert

Joint tenancy is a form of co-ownership where each owner has an equal share and, upon one owner’s death, their interest automatically passes to the surviving owner(s) through the right of survivorship. It’s commonly used for homes and other assets to avoid probate, but it can also affect inheritance plans and creditor exposure. This article […]

Legal Documents and Contracts Legal Documents and Procedures

What is a warranty deed?

March 26, 2026 • By Jack Gilbert

A warranty deed is a real estate deed that transfers property and guarantees the seller holds clear title, with legal promises to defend against past and future title claims. It offers the strongest buyer protection among common deeds, unlike quitclaim deeds that provide no title warranties. This article explains how warranty deeds work, the key […]

Quitclaim Deed Document with Pen and Glasses

Property Law Property Transactions

What is a quitclaim deed?

March 26, 2026 • By Jack Gilbert

A quitclaim deed is a legal document that transfers whatever ownership interest the grantor has in real property—if any—without warranties of title. It’s commonly used for low-risk transfers between family members, spouses after divorce, or to correct title issues, but it offers the buyer little protection. This article explains how quitclaim deeds work, when they’re […]

Legal Document with "lis Pendens" Text and Gavel

Legal Documents Property Law

What is a lis pendens?

March 26, 2026 • By Jack Gilbert

A lis pendens is a recorded public notice that a lawsuit may affect title to a specific piece of real estate. It alerts buyers and lenders that ownership or lien rights are being contested and can make selling or refinancing difficult until the case is resolved. This article explains what a lis pendens is, when […]

Gavel and Keys Symbolizing Unlawful Detainer Law

Eviction Process Landlord Tenant Law

What is unlawful detainer?

March 26, 2026 • By Jack Gilbert

Unlawful detainer is a legal eviction lawsuit a landlord files to regain possession of a rental property after a tenant stays past the lease term or violates the lease and doesn’t move out. It typically begins after proper written notice is served and can move quickly through court depending on state deadlines. This article explains […]

← Previous 1 … 163 164 165 166 167 … 487 Next →