Massachusetts § 18 - Preferred stock; amount; preferences and voting powers; exceptions

Full text of Massachusetts Massachusetts General Laws § 18 — Preferred stock; amount; preferences and voting powers; exceptions, with citation guidance and answers to common questions.

§ 18. Preferred stock; amount; preferences and voting powers; exceptions

Section 18. Every corporation may issue preferred stock of one or more classes to an amount not exceeding at any time the amount of the common stock then outstanding and all cash premiums paid to the company thereon and applied to the purposes of the corporation with such preferences and voting powers or restrictions or qualifications thereof as shall be fixed and determined in the agreement of association at the organization of the corporation; or after organization, as to any such preferred stock or additional class thereof, by a two thirds vote of all the stock entitled to vote thereon or by a by-law adopted by a two thirds vote of all the stock entitled to vote thereon, at a meeting duly called for the purpose. This section shall not apply to corporations organized under chapter one hundred and fifty-six or to railroad corporations or street railway companies.

Source: official Massachusetts text · Last verified 2026-08-27

Frequently Asked Questions About Massachusetts § 18

What does Massachusetts General Laws § 18 cover?

Section 18 ("Preferred stock; amount; preferences and voting powers; exceptions") 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 § 18?

A common citation format is "Massachusetts General Laws § 18" (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 § 18 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.