What does execution mean in legal terms?

In legal terms, execution typically refers to the enforcement of a court judgment, particularly in the context of collecting debts. When a court official seizes property, sells it, and uses the proceeds to satisfy a debt, it is referred to as an execution of judgment. This process is crucial in ensuring that creditors receive the funds they are owed following a legal proceeding.

Execution can occur after a judgment has been rendered in favor of a creditor, meaning the debtor has been ordered to pay a certain amount. If the debtor fails to pay, the court can authorize the seizure of their property as a means of enforcement. This legal mechanism underscores the importance of the courts in upholding financial obligations and providing a structured response to defaults on debts.