In real estate law, a release is a legal instrument used to remove a lien or claim from property, such as one created by a mortgage or judgment. It formally acknowledges that the obligation secured by the lien has been satisfied or otherwise discharged.
When a deed of trust is involved, the release of the lien is typically accomplished through a reconveyance. Recording the release or reconveyance clears the property’s title of the encumbrance and restores full ownership rights to the property owner.
