Detailed Answer: Locating and Identifying Assets Under Utah Law
When you need to locate assets held in multiple counties or states under Utah law, start by identifying the asset class—real property, personal property, financial accounts, or vehicles. Each category follows a distinct public-record process:
1. Real Property Records
Under Utah Code §57-3-1, all deeds, mortgages, liens, and other conveyance documents must be recorded in the county recorder’s office where the real property is located. Access each county’s recorder website or visit the office in person. Search by owner name, parcel number, or legal description. See the statute: https://le.utah.gov/xcode/Title57/Chapter3/57-3-S1.html
2. Uniform Commercial Code (UCC) Filings
Secured interests in personal property—such as equipment, inventory, or fixtures—are documented through UCC financing statements. Utah Code §70A-9a-501 makes these filings public records at the Utah Department of Commerce and county clerk offices. Search by debtor name on the state portal or at local offices: https://le.utah.gov/xcode/Title70A/Chapter9A/70A-9a-501.html
3. Motor Vehicle Titles
Title records for cars, trucks, and other vehicles are maintained by the Utah Division of Motor Vehicles. Under Utah Code §41-1a-201, you may request a search by registered owner or vehicle identification number (VIN): https://le.utah.gov/xcode/Title41/Chapter1a/41-1a-S201.html
4. Bank and Investment Accounts
Financial institutions will not disclose customer information without proper legal authority. In Utah civil actions, use subpoenas or court orders under Utah Rules of Civil Procedure Rule 34. For cross-state discovery, follow the Uniform Interstate Depositions and Discovery Act (Utah Code §78B-6-101 et seq.): https://le.utah.gov/xcode/Title78B/Chapter06/78B-6-S101.html
5. Public Records Requests (GRAMA)
If certain government records aren’t publicly accessible online, file a request under the Government Records Access and Management Act. See Utah Code §63G-2-201 for procedures and exemptions: https://le.utah.gov/xcode/Title63G/Chapter2/63G-2-S201.html
By combining county recorder searches, UCC filings, DMV title checks, financial subpoenas, and GRAMA requests, you can build a clear picture of assets held across jurisdictions.
Disclaimer: This article is for educational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice.
Helpful Hints
- Verify the exact legal names and any known aliases, trade names or DBA registrations.
- Review grantor–grantee indices chronologically to uncover past transfers.
- Use specialized asset-tracing or title-search services for complex portfolios.
- Document all search parameters and results to avoid redundant efforts.
- Consult an attorney before issuing subpoenas or court orders for protected records.