Sealed instruments are legal documents that are executed with a special formality, typically requiring a seal to indicate authenticity. These instruments often include contracts, deeds, and certain types of agreements. The seal signifies that the parties involved are bound by the terms outlined in the document, providing a higher level of legal protection. In many jurisdictions, sealed instruments may have different statutes of limitations compared to unsealed documents, meaning they can remain enforceable for a longer period. Common examples include real estate deeds and wills, which often require a seal to validate their execution and ensure they are recognized by the law.