Which term refers to the relinquishment of a right or interest in land?

The term that refers to the relinquishment of a right or interest in land is abandonment. Abandonment occurs when a property owner voluntarily surrenders their rights to the property with no intention of reclaiming it. This can involve the physical departure from the property as well as a clear indication that the owner has no desire to maintain their ownership.

In the context of title insurance and real estate, understanding abandonment is important because it can impact ownership rights and how properties are treated under the law. For example, a property that is abandoned may be subject to adverse possession, where someone else could potentially acquire ownership by occupying the land for a certain period.

The other terms listed do not relate directly to the concept of relinquishing rights in land. Trust refers to a fiduciary arrangement where property is held by one party for the benefit of another. Intestate is a term used when a person dies without a valid will, affecting how their estate is distributed, but does not imply relinquishment of rights. Judicial sales occur when property is sold under court order, typically to satisfy a debt, and do not involve the owner's voluntary relinquishment of rights.

Understanding these distinctions is valuable when navigating real estate law and title insurance practices.