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Simple English definitions for legal terms
Metes and Bounds
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A quick definition of Metes and Bounds:
Metes and bounds are the way we describe the boundaries of a piece of land. It's like drawing a picture of the land on paper so we know exactly where it is. We use natural things like rivers and trees, or man-made things like roads and fences to help us describe the land. This description is kept with the deed of the land so everyone knows exactly where it is.
A more thorough explanation:
Definition: Metes and bounds are the boundaries of a piece of land that are identified by natural landmarks. These landmarks are used in a legal description of the land, which is a precise geographical description that identifies the location of the land.
A metes and bounds legal description starts from a point of beginning and traces the outline of the property's boundary lines until there is closure in the legal description. Natural and artificial landmarks can both be used as metes and bounds. For example, rivers, roads, trees, and other natural features can be used as landmarks.
Example: If you were to buy a piece of land, the legal description might include metes and bounds. For instance, the description might start at a large oak tree on the north side of the property and then follow the boundary line to a creek on the east side of the property. From there, it might follow the creek until it reaches a large rock on the south side of the property, and then follow the boundary line back to the oak tree where it started.
This example illustrates how metes and bounds can be used to describe the boundaries of a piece of land using natural landmarks. By following the boundary lines from one landmark to the next, you can get a clear picture of the shape and size of the property.