In one sentenceRule 793 lists what the abstract of title must state: the nature and date of each instrument, the details of any contract or conveyance, where it is recorded, and copies of unrecorded instruments used as evidence.
The abstract mentioned in the two preceding rules shall state:
(a)The nature of each document or written instrument intended to be used as evidence and its date; or
(b)If a contract or conveyance, its date, the parties thereto and the date of the proof of acknowledgment, and before what officer the same was made; and
(c)Where recorded, stating the book and page of the record.
(d)If not recorded in the county when the trial is had, copies of such instrument, with the names of the subscribing witnesses, shall be included. If such unrecorded instrument be lost or destroyed it shall be sufficient to state the nature of such instrument and its loss or destruction.
End
Plain-English Summary
Rule 793 spells out the contents of the abstract. For each document the party intends to use, it states the nature and date; for a contract or conveyance, the date, the parties, and the acknowledgment; and where the instrument is recorded, by book and page. Instruments not recorded in the trial county are reproduced in full, with subscribing witnesses, and a lost instrument may be described instead.
Frequently Asked Questions
What must a Texas abstract of title contain?
The nature and date of each instrument, the parties and acknowledgment of any conveyance, the recording book and page, and copies of unrecorded instruments (Rule 793).
What if a document was never recorded in the county where the trial happens?
The abstract includes a full copy of the instrument along with the names of its subscribing witnesses (Rule 793(d)).
What if the unrecorded instrument is lost or destroyed?
The abstract need only describe the instrument's nature and state that it was lost or destroyed (Rule 793(d)).
Source & verification. Rule text and the official Notes and Comments are reproduced verbatim from the
Texas Rules of Civil Procedure (Tex. R. Civ. P. 793), published by the Texas Judicial Branch (txcourts.gov).
Promulgated by the Supreme Court of Texas. The plain-English summary is original and draws on official sources. Last verified June 28, 2026. ·
Official source
Also known as:contents of abstract of titlerecording book and page abstractunrecorded instrument copy requirementlost or destroyed instrument abstractTRCP 793