The primary function of this elected or appointed official is to maintain accurate and accessible records of important documents, particularly those related to real property. This involves receiving, examining, recording, indexing, and archiving a wide array of instruments, such as deeds, mortgages, liens, easements, and plats. For example, when a property is bought or sold, the deed transferring ownership is filed with this office, creating a public record of the transaction.
The role is crucial for establishing clear property ownership, protecting property rights, and providing transparency in real estate transactions. Historically, these offices served as vital repositories of local information, often housing marriage licenses, birth certificates (in some jurisdictions), and other official records. The accessibility of these records provides a framework for legal certainty and economic stability within the county.
