Massachusetts § 1 - Definitions

Full text of Massachusetts Massachusetts General Laws § 1 — Definitions, with citation guidance and answers to common questions.

§ 1. Definitions

Section 1. In this chapter, the following words and terms, unless the context otherwise requires, shall have the following meanings:—

''Auction'' or ''Public auction'', any sale, coming within its ordinary meaning, by public outcry, including in addition thereto, any sale by public outcry where property is offered first at a stated price and thereafter successively or gradually at lower prices until an acceptor or purchaser is found.

''Auctioneer'', any person who, for a fee, commission, profit or any other valuable consideration, or with the intention or expectation of receiving the same, by means of, or process of, an auction or sale at auction, offers, negotiates or attempts to negotiate, a listing contract, sale, purchase or exchange of goods, chattels, merchandise, real or personal property, or of any other commodity which may lawfully be kept or offered for sale by or at public auction.

''Auctioneering'', the business or act of selling real, personal or mixed property by successive, competitive bids.

''Deputy director'', the deputy director of standards in the office of consumer affairs and business regulation.

''Goods'', any chattels, livestock, merchandise, real or personal property, or commodities of any form or type which may be lawfully kept or offered for sale.

''Local auction permit agent'', the person or persons so designated in a city by the mayor or in a town by the board of selectmen, or upon a failure to so designate or in the absence, incapacity or unavailability of any person or persons so designated, the chief of police.

''Person'', individuals, associations, partnerships and corporations, and the officers, directors and employees of a corporation.

Frequently Asked Questions About Massachusetts § 1

What does Massachusetts General Laws § 1 cover?

Section 1 ("Definitions") 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 § 1?

A common citation format is "Massachusetts General Laws § 1" (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 § 1 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.