Massachusetts § 20A - Civil action against board member; expenses and damages; indemnification
Full text of Massachusetts Massachusetts General Laws § 20A — Civil action against board member; expenses and damages; indemnification, with citation guidance and answers to common questions.
§ 20A. Civil action against board member; expenses and damages; indemnification
Section 20A. In any city, town or other entity which accepts the provisions of this section, in a city, by a vote of the city council with the approval of the mayor; in a town, by a vote of the town meeting; in a municipality having a town council form of government, by a vote of the town council; and in any other entity having a retirement board subject to the provisions of this chapter, by a vote of the governing board of such entity, any civil action brought against a member of a retirement board, the defense or settlement of which action is made by an attorney employed by the retirement board, such member shall be indemnified for all expenses incurred in the defense thereof and shall be indemnified for damages to the same extent as provided for public employees in chapter two hundred and fifty-eight; provided, however, that the claim arose out of acts performed by such member or members while acting within the scope of his official duties; and provided, further, that no member of a retirement board shall be indemnified for expenses incurred in the defense of an action, or damages awarded in such action, in which there is shown to be a breach of fiduciary duty, an act of willful dishonesty or an intentional violation of law by such member.
Source: official Massachusetts text · Last verified 2026-08-27
Frequently Asked Questions About Massachusetts § 20A
What does Massachusetts General Laws § 20A cover?
Section 20A ("Civil action against board member; expenses and damages; indemnification") 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 § 20A?
A common citation format is "Massachusetts General Laws § 20A" (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 § 20A 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.