Massachusetts § 15 - Criminal cases; hearings

Full text of Massachusetts Massachusetts General Laws § 15 — Criminal cases; hearings, with citation guidance and answers to common questions.

§ 15. Criminal cases; hearings

Section 15. The exceptions alleged at the trial of a criminal case in any county, not subject to the provisions of sections thirty-three A to thirty-three G, inclusive, of chapter two hundred and seventy-eight in accordance with said provisions or not made subject thereto by order of a justice of the superior court in accordance with section thirty-one of said chapter, may be entered and determined either at the law sitting of the supreme judicial court held for the county in which they arise, or, upon the order of the justice presiding at the trial, at the sitting of the court for the commonwealth including an adjourned sitting.

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

Frequently Asked Questions About Massachusetts § 15

What does Massachusetts General Laws § 15 cover?

Section 15 ("Criminal cases; hearings") 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 § 15?

A common citation format is "Massachusetts General Laws § 15" (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 § 15 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.