Massachusetts § 18A - Facility residents; contribution towards cost of counsel
Full text of Massachusetts Massachusetts General Laws § 18A — Facility residents; contribution towards cost of counsel, with citation guidance and answers to common questions.
§ 18A. Facility residents; contribution towards cost of counsel
Section 18A. A person who is a resident in a facility of the department of mental health or in the Bridgewater state hospital and who has funds held in trust for him by the department of mental health or the department of correction, shall contribute toward the cost of any counsel appointed pursuant to chapter two hundred and eleven D to provide representation in proceedings under this chapter, in an amount not exceeding five hundred dollars unless a larger contribution has been ordered by a court pursuant to sections two and five of chapter two hundred and eleven D. Whenever the department of correction or the department of mental health holds funds in trust for such a person, the department shall turn over such funds, but not exceeding five hundred dollars, to the treasurer to be credited toward the cost of providing such counsel.
Source: official Massachusetts text · Last verified 2026-08-27
Frequently Asked Questions About Massachusetts § 18A
What does Massachusetts General Laws § 18A cover?
Section 18A ("Facility residents; contribution towards cost of counsel") is part of the Massachusetts General Laws, the codified statutory law of Massachusetts. It sets out the legal rule or procedure described in the text above. Statutes are amended regularly, so always verify against the official source.
How do I cite Massachusetts § 18A?
A common citation format is "Massachusetts General Laws § 18A" (Massachusetts). Legal writing may require the code abbreviation, section number, and year or edition. Match the style required by your court, professor, or publisher.
Is this the official text of Massachusetts law?
No. This page is for research and education and may not include the most recent amendments. For official current law, check the Massachusetts official source linked on this page or consult a licensed Massachusetts attorney.
How does Massachusetts § 18A apply to my situation?
Statutes are interpreted in context, and application depends on your specific facts. Only a licensed attorney in Massachusetts can advise on how this section applies to you. Contact your state or local bar association for a referral.
Sources & Verification
Not legal advice. Verify against the official source and consult a licensed attorney in Massachusetts.