Massachusetts § 85T - Negligence action for serving alcohol to intoxicated person prohibited; exceptions

Full text of Massachusetts Massachusetts General Laws § 85T — Negligence action for serving alcohol to intoxicated person prohibited; exceptions, with citation guidance and answers to common questions.

§ 85T. Negligence action for serving alcohol to intoxicated person prohibited; exceptions

Section 85T. In any action for personal injuries, property damage or consequential damages caused by or arising out of the negligent serving of alcohol to an intoxicated person by a licensee properly licensed under chapter one hundred and thirty-eight or by a person or entity serving alcohol as an incident of its business but for which no license is required, no such intoxicated person who causes injuries to himself, may maintain an action against the said licensee or person or entity in the absence of wilful, wanton, or reckless conduct on the part of the licensee or such person or entity.

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

Frequently Asked Questions About Massachusetts § 85T

What does Massachusetts General Laws § 85T cover?

Section 85T ("Negligence action for serving alcohol to intoxicated person prohibited; 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 § 85T?

A common citation format is "Massachusetts General Laws § 85T" (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 § 85T 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.