Massachusetts § 12 - Dismissal of action; costs
Full text of Massachusetts Massachusetts General Laws § 12 — Dismissal of action; costs, with citation guidance and answers to common questions.
§ 12. Dismissal of action; costs
Section 12. No action commenced under section six shall be dismissed, except upon a sworn statement made and filed by the plaintiff and by his attorney setting forth the reasons for dismissal thereof and upon approval of such dismissal by the court in open court. If the court is of opinion that the action ought not to be dismissed he may direct the district attorney to prosecute the case to judgment. If the action was brought by a citizen and the court finds that there was no reasonable ground therefor, costs may be awarded against the plaintiff.
Source: official Massachusetts text · Last verified 2026-08-27
Frequently Asked Questions About Massachusetts § 12
What does Massachusetts General Laws § 12 cover?
Section 12 ("Dismissal of action; costs") 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.