Massachusetts § 16 - Deputies; duties
Full text of Massachusetts Massachusetts General Laws § 16 — Deputies; duties, with citation guidance and answers to common questions.
§ 16. Deputies; duties
Section 16. If a warden, clerk or inspector is absent at the opening of the polls or subsequently on the day of election, or if the office is vacant, the deputy of such officer shall act for that election in his place. If the warden and deputy warden, clerk and deputy clerk, or an inspector and his deputy, shall be absent, the voters of the precinct on nomination and by hand vote shall fill the vacancy, and the officer so elected shall act during the remainder of the election; but otherwise no deputy officer shall act in an official capacity or be admitted to the space reserved for election officers while the polls are open or during the counting of the votes.
In cities where no deputy warden or deputy clerk is appointed, if a warden or clerk is absent at the opening of the polls or subsequently on the day of election, or if the office is vacant, the senior inspector of the same political party as such warden or clerk shall act as warden or clerk for that election, and the voters of the precinct, on nomination and by hand vote, shall fill the vacancy in the office of inspector.
Frequently Asked Questions About Massachusetts § 16
What does Massachusetts General Laws § 16 cover?
Section 16 ("Deputies; duties") 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 § 16?
A common citation format is "Massachusetts General Laws § 16" (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 § 16 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.