Massachusetts § 42F - Trade secrets; effect on other law
Full text of Massachusetts Massachusetts General Laws § 42F — Trade secrets; effect on other law, with citation guidance and answers to common questions.
§ 42F. Trade secrets; effect on other law
[Text of section applicable as provided by 2018, 228, Sec. 70.]
Section 42F. (a) Except as provided in subsection (b), sections 42 to 42G, inclusive, shall supersede any conflicting laws of the commonwealth providing civil remedies for the misappropriation of a trade secret.
(b) Sections 42 to 42G, inclusive, do not affect:
(1) contractual remedies, provided that, to the extent such remedies are based on an interest in the economic advantage of information claimed to be confidential, such confidentiality shall be determined according to the definition of trade secret in section 42, where the terms and circumstances of the underlying contract shall be considered in such determination;
(2) remedies based on submissions to governmental units;
(3) other civil remedies to the extent that they are not based upon misappropriation of a trade secret; or
(4) criminal remedies, whether or not based upon misappropriation of a trade secret.
Source: official Massachusetts text · Last verified 2026-08-27
Frequently Asked Questions About Massachusetts § 42F
What does Massachusetts General Laws § 42F cover?
Section 42F ("Trade secrets; effect on other law") 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 § 42F?
A common citation format is "Massachusetts General Laws § 42F" (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 § 42F 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.