Massachusetts § 159 - Treble damages for injuries caused by dogs ordered to be restrained
Full text of Massachusetts Massachusetts General Laws § 159 — Treble damages for injuries caused by dogs ordered to be restrained, with citation guidance and answers to common questions.
§ 159. Treble damages for injuries caused by dogs ordered to be restrained
Section 159. If a hearing authority or a district court has deemed a dog to be a dangerous dog and such dog wounds a person or worries, wounds or kills any livestock or fowl, the owner or keeper of the dog shall be liable in tort to the person injured by the dog for 3 times the amount of damages sustained by such person.
Source: official Massachusetts text · Last verified 2026-08-27
Frequently Asked Questions About Massachusetts § 159
What does Massachusetts General Laws § 159 cover?
Section 159 ("Treble damages for injuries caused by dogs ordered to be restrained") 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 § 159?
A common citation format is "Massachusetts General Laws § 159" (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 § 159 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.