Define: Legal Description

Legal Description
Legal Description
Quick Summary of Legal Description

A legal description provides a comprehensive explanation of a parcel of land, including any areas subject to specific regulations such as easements or reservations. This description is essential for accurately locating and identifying a particular piece of land, and can be created using various methods such as government surveys or lot numbers from recorded maps. When buying or selling land, having a legal description is crucial.

Full Definition Of Legal Description

A legal description is a comprehensive and formal account of a specific piece of real estate that is sufficiently detailed to identify and locate it. It encompasses any portions of the property that are subject to an easement or reservation. The description can be created by referencing a government survey, metes and bounds, or the lot numbers of a recorded plat. For instance, a legal description of a property may specify its precise boundaries, such as “commencing at a point on the northern side of Main Street, 100 feet west of Elm Street, and proceeding northward for 200 feet.” This type of description holds significant importance in real estate transactions and legal disputes as it ensures that all parties involved have a clear understanding of the specific piece of property being referred to.

Legal Description FAQ'S

A legal description is a detailed and precise description of a property’s boundaries and location, typically used in legal documents such as deeds, contracts, and surveys.

A legal description is crucial in identifying and distinguishing one property from another. It ensures clarity and accuracy in property transactions, boundary disputes, and legal proceedings.

A legal description is typically created by a licensed surveyor or a qualified professional who uses various methods, such as metes and bounds, lot and block, or government rectangular survey systems, to accurately define the property’s boundaries.

In some cases, a legal description can be modified through a process called a boundary line adjustment or lot line revision. However, any changes must comply with local zoning and subdivision regulations and may require approval from relevant authorities.

If a legal description is incorrect, it can lead to confusion, disputes, and potential legal issues. It is essential to rectify any errors promptly by consulting with a qualified attorney or surveyor to ensure the accuracy of the description.

Yes, a legal description can be challenged if there are disputes regarding property boundaries or if there are conflicting descriptions from different sources. In such cases, it is advisable to seek legal assistance to resolve the matter.

While a legal description is an important component in determining property boundaries, it alone cannot establish ownership. Ownership is typically determined by examining a combination of legal documents, such as deeds, titles, and recorded plats, along with the legal description.

Yes, a legal description can help identify potential encroachments by comparing the property’s boundaries with neighboring properties. If an encroachment is suspected, it is advisable to consult with a surveyor or attorney to assess the situation and take appropriate legal action if necessary.

Yes, a legal description is often used as a primary tool in resolving boundary disputes. By comparing the legal descriptions of the properties involved, along with other relevant evidence, such as surveys and historical records, a resolution can be reached through negotiation, mediation, or legal proceedings if required.

Generally, a legal description cannot be changed after a property is sold unless there are exceptional circumstances, such as a mistake or fraud in the original description. It is crucial to ensure the accuracy of the legal description before completing any property transactions to avoid potential complications in the future.

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Disclaimer

This site contains general legal information but does not constitute professional legal advice for your particular situation. Persuing this glossary does not create an attorney-client or legal adviser relationship. If you have specific questions, please consult a qualified attorney licensed in your jurisdiction.

This glossary post was last updated: 17th April 2024.

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