an assignment is a legal term used in the context of the law of contract and of property. in both instances, assignment is the process whereby a person, the "assignor", transfers rights or benefits to another, the "assignee". an assignment may not transfer a duty, burden or detriment without the express agreement of the assignee. the right or benefit being assigned may be a gift (such as a waiver) or it may be paid for with a contractual consideration such as money.