Massachusetts § 171 - Allied mental health and human service professionals; penalty for illegal representation or practice
Full text of Massachusetts Massachusetts General Laws § 171 — Allied mental health and human service professionals; penalty for illegal representation or practice, with citation guidance and answers to common questions.
§ 171. Allied mental health and human service professionals; penalty for illegal representation or practice
Section 171. Any individual not licensed under sections one hundred and sixty-three to one hundred and seventy-two who on March first, nineteen hundred and eighty-nine holds himself out to be or advertises himself as a licensed marriage and family therapist, rehabilitation therapist, educational psychologist, licensed behavior analyst, licensed assistant behavior analyst or mental health counselor in violation of this chapter shall be punished by a fine not exceeding five hundred dollars for the first offense and five hundred dollars for each subsequent offense; provided, however, that the board may also proceed in the superior court to enjoin and restrain any unlicensed individual violating any section of this chapter. The board shall not be required to post bond at any such proceeding.
Source: official Massachusetts text · Last verified 2026-08-27
Frequently Asked Questions About Massachusetts § 171
What does Massachusetts General Laws § 171 cover?
Section 171 ("Allied mental health and human service professionals; penalty for illegal representation or practice") 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 § 171?
A common citation format is "Massachusetts General Laws § 171" (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 § 171 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.