Abstract of Title Law and Legal Definition
An abstract of title is a document which provides information about the history of the legal title to a piece of real estate, which intends to prove that the title is clear. It contains a brief history of the ownership of the property from the original grant through the present holder. In other words, abstract of title is a document that establishes the status of the present title to a property, and lists all items of record such as claims, deeds, judgments and liens. It is also called an abstract and epitome of title.
The details in the abstract of title deal with any events of historic interest and provide references to legal documents which will back up the assertions made in the abstract. It is important to confirm that the records held by government agencies and title companies which pertain to a title are accurate and do not conflict.
