Massachusetts § 20 - Instruments affecting mortgages registered in different counties
Full text of Massachusetts Massachusetts General Laws § 20 — Instruments affecting mortgages registered in different counties, with citation guidance and answers to common questions.
§ 20. Instruments affecting mortgages registered in different counties
Section 20. If an assignment, extension, partial release, release or discharge of a mortgage of land, or a certificate of the taking or surrender of possession for foreclosure of such mortgage, or an affidavit of notice of sale under a power of sale therein, or an execution for possession of the premises conveyed thereby or any other instrument purporting to affect the same, has been recorded in the county where the land lies, and the original mortgage was not recorded in the same registry, the register of the county where such mortgage was originally recorded, upon exhibition to him at the registry of such instrument purporting to affect the same, shall enter upon the margin of the record of the mortgage a note of reference to the record of such instrument.
Source: official Massachusetts text · Last verified 2026-08-27
Frequently Asked Questions About Massachusetts § 20
What does Massachusetts General Laws § 20 cover?
Section 20 ("Instruments affecting mortgages registered in different counties") 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 § 20?
A common citation format is "Massachusetts General Laws § 20" (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 § 20 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.