Massachusetts § 49 - Death, etc., of officer beginning levy or service; completion of service; certificates

Full text of Massachusetts Massachusetts General Laws § 49 — Death, etc., of officer beginning levy or service; completion of service; certificates, with citation guidance and answers to common questions.

§ 49. Death, etc., of officer beginning levy or service; completion of service; certificates

Section 49. If an officer, who has begun to serve an execution or other writ or process, dies or becomes incapable of completing the service and return thereof, the service may be completed by any officer qualified to serve it; or in case of illness or absence, the judgment creditor or the officer who began to serve the writ or process may delegate any officer qualified to serve it temporarily to act for him during said illness or absence. If the first officer has not made a certificate of his doings, the second officer shall certify whatever he finds to have been done by the first officer, and shall add thereto a certificate of his own doings.

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

Frequently Asked Questions About Massachusetts § 49

What does Massachusetts General Laws § 49 cover?

Section 49 ("Death, etc., of officer beginning levy or service; completion of service; certificates") 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 § 49?

A common citation format is "Massachusetts General Laws § 49" (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 § 49 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.