Access privileges for files migrated from PC

I'm a new Mac user, and just moved all my PC files to OS 10.5. I've been having to manually set my access privileges to "Read & Write" on most files and folders, which then allows me to save changes.

However, this morning I discovered how to "apply all" when I make changes to a folder (in theory allowing myself to save changes to all files and folders in Documents), and now, when I go to save changes, I get a new error message: that I need to overwrite the original file, and that I do not have privileges to do so.

What's happening, and how can I make it stop? Why can't I just save my files without trouble like I used to?

Patience thinning,
Sarah

How are you moving files?

LAN, Mass Storage Device or Removable Media

If you burn them to CD/DVD they should be freed of any permissions. Then they will assume the parent folders permissions on copy. You should copy them to your users home folder.