Recording Acts

This lesson focuses upon the purpose, interpretation, and application of recording statutes. The lesson should help students understand the following: what a recording act is and what functions a recording act serves; what kinds of interests are covered by recording acts, and what types of persons may claim the protection of a recording act; the three types of recording acts used in American jurisdictions and the differences between them; how to interpret the language of a typical recording act (and to distinguish between the three basic types); and how to apply a recording act to resolve conflicting claims to the same land.

Learning Outcomes

On completion of the lesson, the student will be able to:

1. Recall what a recording act is.
2. Explain the functions a recording act serves.
3. Identify the kinds of interests recording acts cover.
4. Identify what types of persons may claim the protection of a recording act.
5. Identify the three types of recording acts used in American jurisdictions.
6. Explain the differences between the three types of recording acts used in American jurisdictions.
7. Apply a recording act to resolve conflicting claims to the same land.