What is a "Legal Description"?

A "Legal Description" is a precise way of describing a property using boundaries, landmarks, and survey measurements. This type of description is essential in legal documents because it delineates the exact location and extent of a parcel of land. It typically takes the form of a metes and bounds description, a lot and block system, or a rectangular survey system, all of which provide a detailed and unambiguous reference to properties, devoid of interpretations.

This accuracy is crucial for activities like property sales, transfers, and taxation, ensuring that all parties have a clear understanding of the property in question. Legal descriptions are tied directly to the physical characteristics and layout of land parcels, which aids surveyors, landowners, and legal authorities in making determinations regarding land use and ownership.

In contrast, other forms of descriptions listed in the choices do not provide the required precision. A general statement of property characteristics lacks the specificity needed for legal agreements, while a summary of local land laws focuses on regulations rather than describing the land itself. An informal verbal account of land ownership is subjective and could lead to misunderstandings regarding the actual boundaries and rights associated with the property.