Which added step in legal proceedings indicates a claim against property?

A lien is a legal claim or right against property that is typically used as collateral to satisfy a debt or obligation. When a lien is placed on a property, it signifies that the property will be subject to the creditor's claim until the underlying obligation is fulfilled. This means that if the property owner does not pay off the debt, the creditor can take legal steps to seize the property to satisfy the obligation.

In legal proceedings, a lien serves the purpose of providing security to the creditor, indicating their interest in the property and the potential for recovery of the owed debt through foreclosure or other legal means. This concept is crucial in real estate, finance, and various areas of law where property interests and financial obligations are involved.

Other options do not convey the same meaning. An indictment refers specifically to a formal accusation that a person has committed a crime, contempt pertains to a court's power to hold someone in disrespect or disobedience of its authority, and a writ is a formal written order issued by a court. None of these options directly indicate a claim against property in the way that a lien does.