Free and clear vs. title searches

[Melissa B.]

If a county says that I'm bidding on a tax deed "free and clear" does this mean that there were no liens or other liens or encumbrances found against the property? 

Might I still need to do a title search on a tax deed anyway, if for instance, there were other liens  from the civil division which one wouldn't be able to necessarily be able to research themselves?

Any feedback would be appreciated.

Melissa B.