A common name is a problem when considering judgments. If John Smith held title when a judgment was rendered against him, the judgment continues to be a lien for whatever period the state provides (usually 7 years, but with right to renew twice, for a total of 21 years.) Title companies cover this problem by requiring the John Smith to provide an affidavit stating that he is not that John Smith.
The Torrens system was conceived by a person (named Torrens) who based it on a similar concept in nautical matters.