Expat Words · Practical guide
Escritura pública: A public deed
Understand escritura pública, what to check and the practical steps to take.
What does it mean?
An escritura pública is a public document executed before a notary. It can record transactions or other legally significant acts.
A private agreement and a notarial deed are not the same document. Understand the act before signing.
An everyday example
When buying a property, signing the deed is one stage within a wider process.
What to do next
- Tell the notary what transaction or arrangement you want to document.
- Ask for the draft and an explanation of unfamiliar clauses.
- Arrange language assistance if you cannot follow the document.
- Ask which copies you need and what registration or tax steps follow.
A useful question to ask
What legal act does this deed record, and what remains to be done afterwards?
Check the official guidance
General Council of Notaries: public deeds
Sources checked on 8 September 2026. These explanations and preparation prompts are introductory, not complete procedural instructions or individual legal, tax or medical advice. Confirm current requirements with the responsible authority or qualified professional before acting.