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Can Police Check Your Phone Without a Warrant? Know Your Digital Rights

August 27, 2025/in Blog /by legal-web-admin

Your smartphone holds your entire life – messages, photos, bank details, and personal secrets. But can police legally search it without permission? LEGAL ASSIST explains your rights in simple terms.

Why Your Phone Needs Legal Protection

Your phone is like a digital diary. It contains private information that deserves protection. In India, the Supreme Court has made it clear – privacy is a fundamental right under Article 21 of the Constitution. This means police cannot randomly check your phone without proper legal reason.

Think of your phone as your home. Just like police need permission to enter your house, they need proper authority to search your phone.

What Indian Law Says About Phone Searches

The Basic Rule: Section 165 of Criminal Procedure Code

Police can search your phone without a warrant only when:

They have strong reasons to believe evidence exists on your phone
Getting a warrant might destroy the evidence
They write down their reasons
They inform a judge immediately

This law protects you from random phone checks. LEGAL ASSIST recommends knowing these rules to protect your digital privacy.

When Police Can Check Your Phone Legally

With Your Permission: If you say “yes” to a phone search, police don’t need a warrant. But your permission must be:

Given freely (no pressure or threats)
Clear and direct
With full understanding of what they’ll check

Important: You can always say “I do not consent to this search. Show me a warrant.”

Special Laws That Allow Warrantless Searches

Some situations allow police to check phones without normal warrants:

Anti-Terrorism Cases (UAPA): For national security matters, authorities have broader search powers.

Drug Cases (NDPS Act): If drugs are involved and evidence might be destroyed, police can act quickly.

Cybercrime Cases: Under IT Act 2000, government can monitor digital information for security reasons.

Even in these cases, police must follow proper procedures. Random searches are never allowed.

Can Police Force You to Unlock Your Phone?

The short answer: Usually NO.

Article 20(3) of our Constitution protects you from self-incrimination. This means:

You cannot be forced to give passwords
You cannot be made to unlock your phone
Silent refusal is your right

Gray Area: Courts are still deciding about fingerprint or face unlock. LEGAL ASSIST suggests treating these the same as passwords until clear rules emerge.

What Courts Say About Phone Privacy

Landmark Cases:

Puttaswamy Case (2017): Supreme Court declared privacy a fundamental right. Any phone search must be:

Based on law
For legitimate reasons
Necessary and proportionate

Selvi Case (2010): Court ruled forced confession violates rights. This applies to forced phone unlocking too.

These judgments strongly protect your digital privacy rights.

What Happens If Police Search Illegally?

Consequences of unlawful phone searches:

Evidence becomes useless in court
You can file complaints against officers
Compensation may be awarded for rights violation
Officers face punishment for misusing power

LEGAL ASSIST helps clients fight illegal searches and protect their digital rights.

Your Action Plan When Police Want Your Phone

Stay Calm: Don’t panic or argue. Be polite but firm about your rights.

Ask for Warrant: Simply say, “Do you have a warrant? I don’t consent without proper authority.”

Document Everything: Note officer names, badge numbers, time, and witnesses if safe to do so.

Call a Lawyer: You have the right to legal help. LEGAL ASSIST provides 24/7 support for such situations.

Refuse Pressure: If threatened or pressured, clearly state your consent is not voluntary.

Quick Reference: Legal vs Illegal Phone Searches

Situation	Police Action	Legal Status
No warrant, no consent	Searches phone	ILLEGAL
Forced consent	Takes phone	INVALID
Free consent given	Searches phone	LEGAL
Valid warrant shown	Searches phone	LEGAL
Special law exception	Searches phone	MAY BE LEGAL
Forces password/unlock	Accesses phone	UNCONSTITUTIONAL

Bottom Line: Your Digital Rights Matter

Key Takeaways:

Police generally need warrants or valid consent to search phones
You can refuse phone searches politely
Special laws have limited exceptions
Forced unlocking violates constitutional rights
Illegal searches make evidence useless in court

LEGAL ASSIST believes everyone should know their digital rights. Your phone privacy is protected by law, but only if you know how to use these protections.

Remember: Stay informed, assert rights politely, avoid arguments, and get legal help immediately when needed.

Your digital privacy is real privacy. Protect it wisely, defend it fearlessly.

Need help protecting your digital rights? Contact LEGAL ASSIST for expert legal guidance on phone privacy, digital rights, and constitutional protections.

Service Charge in Indian Restaurants: Mandatory or Not?

August 22, 2025/in Blog /by legal-web-admin

When you finish a delicious meal at your favorite restaurant, the last thing you want is an unwelcome surprise on your bill. Yet many diners across India face this exact situation when they see an extra “service charge” added without their permission. If you’ve ever wondered whether restaurants can legally force you to pay this charge, you’re not alone.

LEGAL ASSIST brings you this comprehensive guide to understand your rights as a consumer and what Indian law actually says about restaurant service charges.

What Exactly is a Service Charge?

A service charge is an additional fee that restaurants add to your bill, typically ranging from 5% to 10% of your total order value. Unlike government taxes such as GST, this charge is completely decided by the restaurant itself.

Think of it this way: when you pay ₹1,000 for food, a 10% service charge would add another ₹100 to your bill. The restaurant claims this money goes to support their staff members like waiters, cleaners, and kitchen helpers.

Service Charge vs Tip: Understanding the Key Difference

Many people confuse service charge with tipping, but they are completely different:

Service Charge:

Added automatically by the restaurant
Usually a fixed percentage (5-10%)
Supposed to be shared among all staff
Often added without asking your permission

Tip (Gratuity):

Given voluntarily by you
Any amount you choose
Goes directly to the person serving you
Your personal choice to show appreciation

The main problem is that restaurants often add service charge without telling you beforehand, making it seem mandatory when it’s actually not.

What Does Indian Law Say About Service Charges?

Here’s the good news: Indian law is completely on your side.

Delhi High Court’s Clear Ruling

In April 2025, the Delhi High Court made a landmark decision stating that restaurants cannot force customers to pay service charges. The court clearly said that making service charge mandatory violates consumer protection laws.

The judges emphasized that customers must have complete freedom to decide whether they want to pay this extra amount or not.

Consumer Protection Authority Guidelines

The Central Consumer Protection Authority (CCPA) has issued clear guidelines:

Service charge is never mandatory
You can refuse to pay if you’re unhappy with the service
Restaurants must clearly mention their service charge policy on menus
Adding service charge without your consent is considered unfair business practice

The Reality: What Actually Happens in Restaurants?

Despite clear legal guidelines, many restaurants across India continue adding service charges without permission. Here’s what LEGAL ASSIST has observed:

Transparent Restaurants

Some honest establishments clearly mention service charge policies on their menus and remove it when customers ask.

Forceful Restaurants

Many premium restaurants automatically add the charge and refuse to remove it, even when challenged by customers.

Hidden Approach

Some smart restaurants include service costs directly in their food prices, avoiding separate charges altogether.

Why Do Restaurants Keep Adding Service Charges?

The restaurant industry faces several challenges that make them rely on service charges:

Supporting Staff Income

Restaurant workers often earn modest salaries. For example, a waiter earning ₹15,000 monthly might get an additional ₹3,000 from service charges, which helps support their family needs.

Decline in Cash Tips

With digital payments becoming common after COVID-19, customers rarely leave cash tips. Service charges ensure staff get some additional income.

Fair Distribution

Unlike tips that go to individual servers, service charges are supposedly shared among all staff members including kitchen helpers, cleaners, and security personnel.

The Dark Side: Misuse of Service Charges

Unfortunately, not all restaurants use service charges honestly. LEGAL ASSIST investigations reveal:

Some restaurants give only 5-6% of collected service charges to staff
The remaining money goes toward restaurant maintenance, decoration, and even owner profits
Many staff members never see the full amount customers pay as service charge

This misuse raises serious questions about transparency and consumer rights.

Can You Legally Refuse to Pay Service Charge?

Absolutely yes! Here’s what you’re legally required to pay:

✅ Must Pay:

Menu price of food and drinks
Government taxes (GST)

❌ Not Required to Pay:

Service charge (unless you agree)
Any hidden fees not mentioned upfront

You have complete legal right to ask for service charge removal from your bill.

What to Do When Restaurants Refuse to Remove Service Charge?

If a restaurant insists you must pay service charge, follow these steps:

Step 1: Stay Calm and Polite

Politely explain that service charge is not mandatory according to Indian law. Ask them to remove it from your bill.

Step 2: Request a Revised Bill

Insist on getting a new bill that excludes the service charge. Most restaurants will comply when they realize you know your rights.

Step 3: Take Action if They Refuse

If the restaurant still refuses:

Call the National Consumer Helpline: 1800-11-4000
File a complaint on e-Daakhil (official consumer court website)
Share your experience on social media
Contact LEGAL ASSIST for legal guidance

Remember, you have every legal right to refuse paying service charge, especially if it wasn’t disclosed beforehand or you’re unsatisfied with the service.

Creating Better Practices for Everyone

For Restaurants:

Be transparent about service charge policies
Allow customers to opt out freely
Ensure fair distribution to staff
Consider including staff incentives in base pricing

For Customers:

Learn about your consumer rights
Support restaurants that practice ethical policies
Tip directly if you want to appreciate good service
Don’t hesitate to question unfair charges

Final Answer: Can Restaurants Force Service Charge Payment?

No, restaurants cannot legally force you to pay service charge in India.

Key takeaways:

Service charge must always be voluntary
Restaurants must inform you about it beforehand
You can legally refuse to pay it
If restaurants force payment, you can take legal action
Choose to tip separately if you want to show appreciation

Being informed about your rights ensures you only pay what’s fair and legally required. Don’t let restaurants take advantage of your lack of knowledge about consumer protection laws.

LEGAL ASSIST recommends staying educated about your rights and supporting businesses that practice transparent and fair policies. Remember, knowledge is your best protection against unfair business practices.

Need legal assistance with consumer protection issues? Contact LEGAL ASSIST for expert guidance on your rights and legal remedies.

Legal Remedies for Encroachment of Property by a Neighbour with Landmark Judgments

February 27, 2025/in Blog /by legal-web-admin

Encroachment of property by a neighbor is a common legal issue that property owners face. When a neighbor unlawfully occupies or extends structures onto your property, it can lead to disputes, loss of rightful possession, and even legal battles. In India, property rights are protected under various laws, and there are multiple legal remedies available to property owners to address such encroachments. This blog explores the remedies for property encroachment, backed by landmark judgments that have shaped property law in India.

Understanding Property Encroachment

Property encroachment occurs when a person, knowingly or unknowingly, builds or extends any structure beyond their legal boundary, thereby intruding upon another’s property. Encroachment can take different forms, such as:

Construction of buildings or fences beyond the legal boundary.
Unlawful occupation of a portion of land.
Trespassing for personal or commercial use.

Legal Remedies for Encroachment

If a property owner faces encroachment, they have multiple legal remedies under Indian law:

Filing a Civil Suit for Injunction

One of the most effective remedies is filing a suit for permanent or temporary injunction under Order 39 Rules 1 & 2 of the Civil Procedure Code, 1908 (CPC). This restrains the encroacher from continuing unlawful construction or use of the land.

Landmark Judgment: K.K. Verma v. Union of India (1954 AIR 1092)

This case reinforced the importance of possessory rights and the principle that even an unauthorized occupant cannot be dispossessed without due process of law.

Filing a Suit for Declaration and Possession

If an encroacher has unlawfully taken possession of a property, the rightful owner can file a suit for declaration and possession under Section 34 of the Specific Relief Act, 1963.

Landmark Judgment: K.K. Verma v. Union of India (1954 AIR 1092)

The Supreme Court ruled that possession rights, even of an unauthorized occupant, cannot be disturbed without legal proceedings.

Eviction under the Land Revenue Code

Many states in India have specific provisions under their Land Revenue Codes to prevent illegal encroachments on private and government land. Property owners can approach revenue authorities for eviction orders.

Landmark Judgment: State of Haryana v. Mukesh Kumar (2011) 10 SCC 404

The Supreme Court held that encroachers on government or private land cannot claim any legal protection.

Criminal Proceedings under IPC

Encroachment can also be a criminal offense under Section 441 of the Indian Penal Code (IPC), 1860, which defines criminal trespass. If a neighbor has encroached intentionally, they can be prosecuted under Section 447 of IPC for trespassing.

Landmark Judgment: Krishna Ram Mahale v. Shobha Venkat Rao (1989 AIR 2097)

This case highlighted that even temporary unlawful occupation amounts to trespass and can be legally challenged.

Legal Action under the Limitation Act, 1963

If an encroacher occupies land for more than 12 years without any objection from the owner, they may claim ownership through adverse possession under Section 27 of the Limitation Act, 1963. To prevent such claims, property owners must act promptly.

Landmark Judgment: Amarendra Pratap Singh v. Tej Bahadur Prajapati (2004) 10 SCC 65

The Supreme Court ruled that adverse possession can be claimed only if there is open, continuous, and hostile possession against the true owner.

Steps to Take in Case of Encroachment
Survey the Property: Get a government-authorized surveyor to assess property boundaries.
Send a Legal Notice: A legal notice can warn the encroacher and serve as evidence in court.
File a Complaint with Local Authorities: Municipal and revenue authorities can take action.
Approach the Court: File a civil suit for injunction or possession.
Opt for Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR): Mediation or arbitration can help resolve the issue amicably.

Conclusion

Encroachment on property can lead to long legal disputes, but Indian law provides strong remedies for rightful owners. Timely action, legal intervention, and knowledge of landmark judgments can help in protecting property rights effectively. If you are facing encroachment, consult a legal expert to determine the best course of action based on the specifics of your case.

For legal assistance and expert guidance on property disputes, contact Legal Assist today!

Hindu Daughter After Converting to Islam Does Not Lose Inheritance Right

February 25, 2025/in Blog /by legal-web-admin

In India, questions about inheritance rights often arise when a person converts from one religion to another. One common misconception is that a Hindu daughter who converts to Islam loses her right to inherit property from her Hindu family. However, Indian courts have consistently ruled that conversion does not strip a person of their inheritance rights under Hindu personal laws. This article explores the legal position with relevant case laws and judicial precedents.

Legal Framework for Hindu Inheritance

Inheritance among Hindus is governed primarily by the Hindu Succession Act, 1956 (HSA), which applies to Hindus, Buddhists, Jains, and Sikhs. Section 2 of the HSA clarifies its applicability, while Sections 8 and 15 govern the inheritance rights of Hindu males and females, respectively.

A key question is whether a Hindu daughter who converts to Islam (or any other religion) loses her right to inherit ancestral or self-acquired property under the HSA. The answer, as per judicial interpretation, is No.

Conversion and Its Effect on Inheritance

Conversion Does Not Affect Succession Rights

The Hindu Succession Act, 1956, does not explicitly bar a convert from inheriting property. There is no provision in the Act that states that a person ceases to be a legal heir due to religious conversion. Courts have reinforced this view over the years.

Case Laws Supporting the Right to Inherit

(i) Smt. Fatima Bibi v. Jaffar Hussain & Others[1]

The Madras High Court held that a Hindu daughter who converts to Islam is still entitled to inherit her father’s property under the HSA, unless explicitly disqualified by a valid law.

(ii) Sarla Mudgal v. Union of India[2]

While this case primarily addressed bigamy after religious conversion, the Supreme Court observed that mere conversion to Islam does not affect inheritance rights under Hindu personal laws.

(iii) Prakash v. Phulavati[3]

The Supreme Court ruled on the retrospective application of the Hindu Succession (Amendment) Act, 2005, and reaffirmed that a daughter—whether converted or not—has equal rights in ancestral property.

(iv) Munni Devi v. Chamanlal[4]

The Allahabad High Court ruled that a Hindu convert to Islam remains entitled to her share of the inherited property, as long as she was a Hindu at the time of succession opening.

Exception: Disqualification Under Customary Law

While the HSA does not disqualify a convert from inheriting property, some customary Hindu laws may impose restrictions. For example, certain Mitakshara or Dayabhaga customary traditions disallow inheritance rights upon conversion. However, such customs must be proven in court and cannot override statutory law.

Muslim Law Perspective on Inherited Property

Once a Hindu daughter converts to Islam and inherits property, her share is governed by Muslim personal law (Sharia). If she dies intestate (without a will), her Muslim heirs—such as her children—will inherit according to Islamic law. However, the inheritance rights granted to her under Hindu law remain valid even after conversion.

Conclusion

The notion that a Hindu daughter loses her inheritance rights upon conversion to Islam is legally incorrect. The Hindu Succession Act, 1956, does not contain any provision disqualifying a convert from inheriting property. Indian courts, through various judgments, have upheld the principle that conversion does not extinguish inheritance rights. Unless there is a proven and valid custom barring inheritance upon conversion, a Hindu daughter continues to be a legal heir to her father’s property even after embracing Islam.

Key Takeaways:

✅ Conversion to Islam does not disqualify a Hindu daughter from inheriting property.

✅ The Hindu Succession Act, 1956, governs inheritance, and no provision bars a convert from inheriting.

✅ Courts have consistently upheld a daughter’s right to inherit property despite conversion.

✅ The only exception applies if a well-established and proven Hindu custom explicitly disqualifies a convert.

Thus, a Hindu daughter’s right to inheritance remains intact, irrespective of her change in faith.

[1] 2009 SCC Online Mad 1465.

[2] 1995 AIR 1531, 1995 SCC (3) 635.

[3] 2016 2 SCC 36.

[4] AIR 1970 All 211.

Unravelling the Circle Rate: how does it work in India

December 3, 2024/in Blog /by legal-web-admin

Are you intending to purchase or sell a property in India? If you have heard the term “circle rate” mentioned, then you are likely familiar with it. However, what is it specifically, and how does it impact your real estate transaction? Let’s delve into and clarify this crucial concept.

What is a Circle Rate?

Simply put, a circle rate is the minimum price set by the government for a particular area or neighborhood. It’s the lowest acceptable value at which a property can be legally registered or transferred.

Why Do Circle Rates Matter?

Circle rates are important for a few key reasons:

Taxes and Stamp Duty: When you buy a property, the stamp duty you pay is calculated based on the circle rate, not the actual sale price. This ensures the government gets its fair share of taxes.
Loan Approval: Banks and financial institutions also use circle rates to determine the maximum loan amount they can provide for a property. This helps them assess the risk.
Price Transparency: Circle rates bring transparency to the real estate market by establishing a baseline value. This prevents undervaluation and protects both buyers and sellers.

How are Circle Rates Determined?

Circle rates are set by the local government or revenue department. They take into account factors like:

Location and neighborhood
Proximity to important landmarks
Infrastructure and amenities
Recent sales data in the area
Overall real estate trends

The rates are usually updated annually to reflect changes in the market.

What Happens if the Sale Price is Lower?

If the actual sale price of a property is lower than the circle rate, the government will calculate the stamp duty based on the circle rate. This ensures that the government gets the appropriate amount of tax revenue.

Can Circle Rates Be Negotiated?

Yes, it is possible to negotiate the circle rate in certain cases. This usually happens when:

The property is in a remote or less-developed area
The property is old or in need of significant repairs
The seller is open to accepting a reduced price.

However, keep in mind that the final circle rate is determined by the government, not the buyer or seller.

How Does Circle Rate Affect Property Prices?

Circle rates can have a significant impact on property prices in India. Here’s how:

In high-demand areas, the circle rate acts as a price floor, preventing prices from falling below it.
In slower markets, the circle rate can be higher than the actual market price, making properties more expensive for buyers.
Developers often base their pricing on the circle rate, which can influence the overall market.

Tips for Buyers and Sellers

For buyers:

Research the circle rate in the area before making an offer
Negotiate if the circle rate seems unreasonably high
Factor in the circle rate when calculating your budget and loan requirements

For sellers:

Understand the circle rate in your area and price your property accordingly
Be prepared to justify a higher price if the circle rate is lower
Partner with a real estate agent that can assist in guiding you through the circle rate procedure.

The Bottom Line

Circle rates may seem like a complicated aspect of the Indian real estate market, but they play a crucial role in ensuring transparency and fairness. As a buyer or seller, understanding how they work can help you make informed decisions and avoid costly surprises.

Keep in mind that having knowledge is powerful when it comes to maneuvering through property transactions. Stay informed, do your research, and you’ll be well on your way to a smooth and successful property deal.

Ancestral vs. Inherited Property: Understanding the Key Differences

September 6, 2024/in Blog /by legal-web-admin

Have you ever wondered about the property your family owns? Maybe you’ve heard terms like “ancestral property” and “inherited property” but aren’t sure what they mean. Don’t worry! In this blog post, we’ll break down the differences between these two types of property in simple terms.

What is Ancestral Property?

Ancestral property is like a family heirloom that’s been passed down for generations. It’s property that your father or grandfather (or even great-grandfather) got from their father or grandfather. Think of it as a special gift that keeps moving through your family tree.

Some key points about ancestral property:

It usually comes from male family members
The family has owned it for at least two generations
All family members have a right to it, even if they weren’t born when the property was first acquired

What is Inherited Property?

Inherited property is simpler. It’s any property you get after someone dies. This could be from your parents, grandparents, or even a friend who left you something in their will. Unlike ancestral property, inherited property doesn’t have to come from family members.

Important things to know about inherited property:

It can come from anyone, not just family
It becomes yours after the previous owner dies
You might be the only one who gets it, or you might share it with others

The Main Differences

Now that we know what each type of property is, let’s look at the big differences:

Where it comes from: Ancestral property always comes from family, while inherited property can come from anyone.
How long it’s been in the family: Ancestral property has been around for at least two generations, but inherited property could be new to your family.
Who has rights to it: With ancestral property, all family members usually have some rights. With inherited property, only the people named in the will have rights to it.
How it’s divided: Ancestral property is often shared among family members, while inherited property might go to just one person.
Legal rules: Many countries have special laws about ancestral property to protect family rights. Inherited property usually follows simpler rules.

Why Does It Matter?

Knowing the difference between ancestral and inherited property is important for several reasons. It can affect who gets to use the property, how it’s divided if someone wants to sell it, and what happens to it in the future. It can also help avoid family fights and legal problems.

In the end, both types of property can be valuable gifts from those who came before us. Understanding the differences can help us manage these gifts wisely and fay.

Top Lawyers For Property Case in Delhi | Best Delhi Lawyers for Civil Case | property consultant in noida

WHAT IS CONVEYANCING?

August 21, 2024/in Blog /by legal-web-admin

A legal document is a written instrument that records and formalizes an agreement, obligation, or other legally enforceable act. It is a communication tool in the legal sphere designed to express and enforce rights, responsibilities, or procedures under the law.

Conveyancing is the branch of law which dealt with modes and forms in which the expression of intention to transfer a property must be shown in a deed, so that it takes effect. Conveyancing deals with the modes and manner in which a transfer of property should take place in order that it may serve as an effective and a valid transaction.

The word ‘conveyancing’ may be said to comprise all the transactions by which legal rights are created and legal relations between persons are brought in existence. It is generally that branch of law that governs and is related to the drafting of documents. The science of drafting is conveyancing.

In law, conveyancing is the exchange of legitimate title of the real property starting with one individual then onto the next, or the giving of an encumbrance

Conveyancing also includes conducting thorough searches and investigations to uncover any potential issues or encumbrances associated with the property. This may involve examining property records, conducting local authority searches, and checking for any legal restrictions or disputes that may affect the transaction.

What is the objective?

The object of executing an instrument is to make the terms of transfer, its subjectiveness, its position contain and express the memory of what is written and to provide a permanent proof of the intention of the parties.

It is a vital process that safeguards both parties’ interests and ensures that the transfer of ownership is legally binding.

The process ensures that the buyer acquires a valid title to the property and that the transfer of ownership is legally binding. Conveyancing is a complex process that involves several steps and parties, and it is vital to work with a reputable solicitor and estate agent to ensure that the process runs smoothly.

SALE DEED

A Sale Deed is a legal document describing the transfer of right, title and ownership of property by a seller to a purchaser at a price fully paid or to be paid in instalments at a future date. The entire amount of sale transaction also known as sale consideration is paid at the time of registration of the sale deed.

MORTGAGE DEED

A mortgage deed is a legal document that gives lender an interest in a property when you take out a loan backed by the property. If a borrower does not pay back a loan in accordance with the agreement, the lender can foreclose and take possession of the property or have it auctioned. Basically, a Mortgage Deed is a paperwork you sign that allows the lender to put lien on the property until the loan is paid.

LEASE DEED

When a property is used and enjoyed by the person in possession of it in exchange for a consideration to the actual owner, the property is said to be leased or rented. When a property is given on a lease, it means that the lessee or the tenant can use the property for a definite period of time for which he/she would be required to pay a certain fixed amount of rent. When this period extends to more than a year, a lease deed must be prepared.

GIFT DEED

A gift deed, also known as a deed of gift, is a legal document that transfers ownership of property from one person to another without monetary consideration. It’s a voluntary transfer that can be of real, personal, or intellectual property, such as real estate, vehicles, jewelry, or financial instruments. A gift deed acts as proof of the transfer and ensures that it’s legally binding.