Massachusetts § 12 - False lottery tickets; creation, sale, or possession

Full text of Massachusetts Massachusetts General Laws § 12 — False lottery tickets; creation, sale, or possession, with citation guidance and answers to common questions.

§ 12. False lottery tickets; creation, sale, or possession

Section 12. Whoever makes or sells, or has in his possession with intent to sell, exchange or negotiate, or by printing, writing or otherwise assists in making or selling, or in attempting to sell, exchange or negotiate, a false or fictitious lottery ticket, or any share thereof, or any writing, certificate, bill, token or other device before mentioned, or any ticket or share thereof in a fictitious or pretended lottery, knowing the same to be false or fictitious, or receives any money or other thing of value for such ticket or share of a ticket, writing, certificate, bill, token or other device purporting that the owner, bearer or holder thereof shall be entitled to receive any prize, or share of a prize, or other thing of value, that may be drawn in a lottery, knowing the same to be false or fictitious, shall be punished by imprisonment in the state prison for not more than three years.

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

Frequently Asked Questions About Massachusetts § 12

What does Massachusetts General Laws § 12 cover?

Section 12 ("False lottery tickets; creation, sale, or possession") 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 § 12?

A common citation format is "Massachusetts General Laws § 12" (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 § 12 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.