Massachusetts § 20 - Proceeds of sale; distribution
Full text of Massachusetts Massachusetts General Laws § 20 — Proceeds of sale; distribution, with citation guidance and answers to common questions.
§ 20. Proceeds of sale; distribution
Section 20. If money is due to more than one person holding such lien and all parties interested have been summoned to appear, the claims of all shall be marshalled, and the court shall make such order as may be necessary to prevent the enforcement of a double lien for the same labor, materials, stores, storage, provisions or other articles, and to secure the rights of each. The proceeds from the sale of the vessel, after deducting all costs and expenses, shall be distributed among the several claimants according to the amount of their respective debts, except that, if such proceeds are insufficient to satisfy the liens of all, those who have liens for labor shall receive a percentage on their respective claims one third greater, as near as may be, than those who have liens for materials, stores, storage or other articles. All proceeds of sales in excess of any liens thereon shall be placed in the Abandoned Vessel Trust Fund established in section 35GG of chapter 10.
Source: official Massachusetts text · Last verified 2026-08-27
Frequently Asked Questions About Massachusetts § 20
What does Massachusetts General Laws § 20 cover?
Section 20 ("Proceeds of sale; distribution") 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.