Massachusetts § 13 - Qualifications; grounds for denial of application for appointment
Full text of Massachusetts Massachusetts General Laws § 13 — Qualifications; grounds for denial of application for appointment, with citation guidance and answers to common questions.
§ 13. Qualifications; grounds for denial of application for appointment
[Text of section applicable pursuant to 2016, 289, Sec. 7.]
Section 13. (a) A person qualified for a notary public commission shall be at least 18 years of age and reside or have a regular place of work or business within the commonwealth.
(b) In the governor's discretion, an application for appointment, reappointment or renewal of a commission may be denied based on:
(i) submission of an official application containing a material misstatement or omission of fact;
(ii) the applicant's conviction of an offense that resulted in a prison sentence;
(iii) the applicant's conviction of a misdemeanor offense that resulted in a sentence to probation or a fine or a conviction for a violation of paragraph (a) of subdivision (1) of section 24 of chapter 90 or subsection (a) of section 8 of chapter 90B;
(iv) the applicant's admission to sufficient facts to warrant a finding of guilt of any offense;
(v) a finding or admission of responsibility or liability against the applicant in a civil action based on the applicant's fraud or deceit;
(vi) revocation, suspension, restriction or denial of a notary public commission or professional licensure by the commonwealth or any other jurisdiction; or
(vii) any other reason, including official misconduct, that in the governor's discretion, would render the applicant unsuitable to hold a notary public commission.
Source: official Massachusetts text · Last verified 2026-08-27
Frequently Asked Questions About Massachusetts § 13
What does Massachusetts General Laws § 13 cover?
Section 13 ("Qualifications; grounds for denial of application for appointment") 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 § 13?
A common citation format is "Massachusetts General Laws § 13" (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 § 13 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.