Massachusetts § 177 - Police assistance in protecting property; non-residents assisting with arms; liability in damages
Full text of Massachusetts Massachusetts General Laws § 177 — Police assistance in protecting property; non-residents assisting with arms; liability in damages, with citation guidance and answers to common questions.
§ 177. Police assistance in protecting property; non-residents assisting with arms; liability in damages
Section 177. A person may, if his property is in danger, call upon the regular police authorities in the commonwealth for assistance in its protection, and this and the preceding section shall not limit or diminish such right; but no person shall request or authorize any person or body of persons not residents of the commonwealth, except regular employees, to assist such person with arms in the defence of his property, and no such request or authority shall justify an assault or attack with arms by a non-resident. Whoever, being an employer of labor, requests or authorizes assistance in violation of this section, and whoever renders such assistance with arms, shall be severally liable in damages to each person injured in person or property thereby.
Source: official Massachusetts text · Last verified 2026-08-27
Frequently Asked Questions About Massachusetts § 177
What does Massachusetts General Laws § 177 cover?
Section 177 ("Police assistance in protecting property; non-residents assisting with arms; liability in damages") 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 § 177?
A common citation format is "Massachusetts General Laws § 177" (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 § 177 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.