Massachusetts § 5 - Oath; seal

Full text of Massachusetts Massachusetts General Laws § 5 — Oath; seal, with citation guidance and answers to common questions.

§ 5. Oath; seal

Section 5. A person appointed commissioner in a state, territory, district or dependency of the United States shall, within three months after his appointment, take and subscribe an oath before a justice of the peace or other magistrate of the town or county where he resides, or before a clerk of a court of record within the state, territory, district or dependency where he resides, faithfully to perform the duties of his office, and shall cause an official seal to be prepared, upon which shall appear his name, the words ''Commissioner for Massachusetts'' and the name of the state, territory, district or dependency, and town or county where he resides. A person appointed commissioner in a foreign country shall, before performing any duty of his office, take and subscribe an oath before a judge or clerk of a court of record of the country where he resides or before an ambassador, minister or consul of the United States accredited to such country, faithfully to perform the duties of his office. In each case, a certificate of the commissioner's oath of office and his signature and an impression of his official seal shall be forthwith transmitted to and filed in the office of the state secretary.

Frequently Asked Questions About Massachusetts § 5

What does Massachusetts General Laws § 5 cover?

Section 5 ("Oath; seal") 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 § 5?

A common citation format is "Massachusetts General Laws § 5" (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 § 5 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.