Public Records Free Directory Blog

In most states throughout the U.S., there is a recorders office in each county.  These offices hold a very critical post in the community.  Many important life events are recorded through the Recorder’s Office.  The Recorder’s office is responsible for filing and maintaining land transaction records, vital records, and powers of attorney.

Land transactions managed by a recorder’s office can include deeds and liens.  Deeds concerning land transactions are signed documents which transfer an interest in property. If you own a house, there will be a deed which will list you as the owner as well as when the property was purchased and who/what it is was purchased from.  Once the transaction is complete, and all the paper works is signed and sealed, it is then filed with the county recorder.  Liens and easement documents are handled in a similar manner.  A lien is as legal right or interest of a creditor in one’s property.  One example of lien document you could find with the recorder’s office is a mortgage.  A mortgage is a type of lien, because the bank that provided the home loan retains an interest in the property until the loan is completely paid off.  If you default on your mortgage, then because of the bank’s interest in the property, they have the right to take possession of the property. 

Vital records managed by the county recorder can include birth, death, marriage, and divorce records.  These records document the date, place, and name of the person involved in the event.   While there are other departments and government agencies that may also be responsible for the issuance and maintenance of vital records, the county recorder also generally bears that responsibility.

A power of attorney is a document which gives another person the authority to act as an agent for you.  Powers of attorney are especially important in cases of serious illness or accident, where you may not be able to effectively represent yourself.  A power of attorney can be broad, or limited to specific purposes.  For example, through medical power of attorney, an agent can only make medical related decisions. 

Depending on the county, you may be able to view copies of recorded documents online.  Online records are never the official record; however, they can at least serve to provide any necessary information.  If you require an official copy of a document, this usually requires visiting the recorder’s office in person, or making written requests.  Generally, where recorded documents can be viewed by the public online, certain information is restricted from view, such as social security numbers.  The Free Public Records Directory provides a complete list of Recorders by state and county.  Where online searches are available, this information is also provided with direct links to searchable databases.�