Massachusetts § 15 - Times for holding trials; office hours
Full text of Massachusetts Massachusetts General Laws § 15 — Times for holding trials; office hours, with citation guidance and answers to common questions.
§ 15. Times for holding trials; office hours
Section 15. The chief justice for the district court department, and the chief justice for the Boston municipal court department, shall prescribe the times for holding civil and criminal trials in their respective departments, and the divisions thereof, except where such times are established by law, and the hours when their respective departments, and divisions, shall open for the transaction of business, and shall also prescribe reasonable office hours for the clerks of their respective divisions, during which hours the offices of such clerks shall be open, and may authorize such clerks to operate their offices on Saturdays with reduced personnel. Such hours shall be fixed with reference to the business of said divisions and the convenience of the public and of attorneys, and notice thereof shall be posted in a conspicuous place in the offices of the respective clerks. Clerks shall also keep their offices open whenever the court so orders.
Source: official Massachusetts text · Last verified 2026-08-27
Frequently Asked Questions About Massachusetts § 15
What does Massachusetts General Laws § 15 cover?
Section 15 ("Times for holding trials; office hours") 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 § 15?
A common citation format is "Massachusetts General Laws § 15" (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 § 15 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.