Massachusetts § 20 - Effect of attachment

Full text of Massachusetts Massachusetts General Laws § 20 — Effect of attachment, with citation guidance and answers to common questions.

§ 20. Effect of attachment

Section 20. The goods, effects or credits of the defendant intrusted to, or deposited in the hands or possession of, a person summoned as his trustee shall, except as hereinafter provided, be attached and held to respond to the final judgment, as if they had been attached upon an original writ of attachment; provided, that any moneys of the defendant deposited in any account designated as a payroll account shall not be subject to attachment hereunder. Any defendant who deposits moneys in such payroll account with intent to evade attachment by trustee process shall be punished by a fine of not less than one hundred nor more than one thousand dollars or by imprisonment in the house of correction for not more than three months, or both. If such a deposit or deposits are made by a corporation, the president and the treasurer and any other officer or agent causing such deposit or deposits to have been made shall be subject to prosecution as defendants under this section, and each of such persons shall be jointly and severally civilly liable to the plaintiff for any loss suffered by the making of such deposit or deposits.

Frequently Asked Questions About Massachusetts § 20

What does Massachusetts General Laws § 20 cover?

Section 20 ("Effect of attachment") 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 § 20?

A common citation format is "Massachusetts General Laws § 20" (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 § 20 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.