The Register of Deeds office serves as a recording and information center for real estate located in Douglas County. If you have ever bought or sold property, you have interacted with a similar office. The name of this office may vary from state to state, but its role is the same.
We are the custodians and preserver of all records concerning parcels of land in Douglas County including deeds, mortgages, maps/subdivision plats, and other documents pertaining to real estate. Whenever you buy or sell property, someone will utilize our records in order to make sure that the property is free of any liens and ensure that you have clear title to the property. City, state, & federal offices also use these records to determine where to put utility lines, determine land usage plans and lots more.
In addition, the staff of the Register of Deeds serves both the professional and general public with recording of documents, investigation and requests of documents, telephone assistance, and the recording of military discharge papers for our honored veterans.
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DD214 Recording
A Free Service For Veterans
Military veterans are encouraged to record their military discharge (DD214) form with the Douglas County Register of Deeds office for safekeeping. This is an important document that is often needed for veterans’ benefits.
Limited Access (qualified persons with photo I.D.)
Protect Against Natural Disaster or Misplacement
You Keep the Original Document
Convenient and Quick Availability
Free Certified Copies (equivalent to an original)
Safe and Secure Storage for Peace of Mind
Honoring All Who Served
Documents
Frequently Asked Questions
It is vital that deeds are prepared accurately. You can draw up your own deed but to prevent mistakes that could be costly, we always recommend that you retain an attorney or title company to help ensure that the deed is prepared correctly. Our… Read More
No. At least a portion of any property referred to in the document has to be located in Douglas County, Kansas.
While the Register of Deeds office does not directly provide this service, the public is welcome to research our records.
Yes. Douglas County will accept e-record documents from the following vendors:
Simplifile - http://www.simplifile.com
Mobilis - www.icounty.… Read More
Documents must be an original. The only exceptions are certified copies from the courts.
In America, property ownership is almost taken for granted. But remember, there are countries where owning property is not the norm. The office was often created even before a state became an official part of the United States. The records… Read More
Kent Brown
Register of Deeds
Experience
Register of Deeds Kent Brown began his career in the real estate records industry in 2010 as a recording clerk in the Register of Deeds Office. He then spent several years working at an area title company conducting research in the Register of Deeds Office. Kent later returned to Douglas County and served five years as Deputy Register of Deeds before running for office in 2020 and being elected as Register of Deeds.
Education
Kent has a B.A. in English and a minor in Business from the University of Kansas. He also holds a Master’s in Business Administration from Baker University. Kent is a Certified Public Manager, a Certified Register of Deeds, and a Leadership Lawrence alumni.
Goals
Kent strives to improve public access to Register of Deeds records, streamline internal processes, and maintain responsiveness to public feedback.
Douglas County Courthouse
1100 Massachusetts Street
Lawrence, KS 66044
United States
