Deed

This page relates to the legal document. For the concept of actions performed, see Deeds.

A deed is a signed and, in some jurisdictions, usually sealed legal instrument in writing used to grant a right. Deeds have historically been part of the broader category of instruments under seal, requiring only the affixing of a common seal to render them valid. Today, however, deeds are instruments in solemn form which require the author's signature and, depending upon the jurisdiction, either notarization or a number of attesting witnesses..

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The Dictionary of Legal Quotations (1904)

Quotes reported in James William Norton-Kyshe, The Dictionary of Legal Quotations (1904), p. 233-234.

• I do not wish to shake titles, and I shall do precisely what our predecessors have always done—leave the case where it is. It is a rock ahead that everybody knows.
  • Lindley, L.J., In re Lashmar (1890), L. J. Rep. (N S.) 60 Ch. 146.

• God forbid, that a man should lose his estate by losing his title deeds.
  • Eyre, C.J., Bolton v. Bishop of Carlisle (1793), 2 H. B. 263.

• There is not more difference betwixt a grant and feoffment, than betwixt one egg and another.
  • Bridgman, C.J., Jemot v. Cooley (1666), Sir Thos. Raymond's Rep. 159.

• No man ought to be so absurd as to make a purchase without looking at the title deeds; if he is, he must take the consequence of his own negligence.
  • Ashhurst, J., Goodtitle v. Morgan (1787), 1 T. R. 762.

• Immemorial enjoyment is the most solid of all titles.
  • Tindal, C.J., In the Matter of the Serjeants-at-Law (1840), 6 Bing. New Cases, 238.