Abstract: A method and system where a trusted third party handles an escrow transaction between two or more parties according to specific instructions. The method involves one person (an initiator) transmitting a document set to a trusted third party, along with a list of designated recipients and detailed document-processing instructions. Termination of the instructions occur when conditions set by the initiator have been met or a specified end date has been met. Compliance with these instructions defines the end of the transaction. Optionally, the initiator may specify a protocol for notifying all parties of the outcome of the transaction. Optionally, process start dates and decision dates may be set. The system used may include basic input and output peripherals, the Internet or other public communication system and a trusted third party web site.