Define: Recording

In law, “recording” refers to the act of officially documenting or registering legal instruments, transactions, or events with a relevant government authority, typically a recorder’s office or registry. This process creates a public record that serves as evidence of the existence, terms, and status of the recorded document or event. Common examples of recordings include the recording of deeds, mortgages, liens, judgements, and other real estate documents, as well as the recording of births, marriages, divorces, and deaths. Recording is often required to provide notice to third parties, establish priority of rights, and protect the interests of parties involved in legal transactions. Failure to record certain documents may result in loss of rights or priority and may affect the enforceability or validity of the recorded instrument.

The process of filing a copy of a deed or other document concerning real estate with the land records office for the county in which the land is located. Recording creates a public record of changes in ownership of all property in the state.

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This glossary post was last updated: 29th March, 2024.