Massachusetts § 23 - Supreme judicial, appeals and superior courts; items of costs
Full text of Massachusetts Massachusetts General Laws § 23 — Supreme judicial, appeals and superior courts; items of costs, with citation guidance and answers to common questions.
§ 23. Supreme judicial, appeals and superior courts; items of costs
Section 23. There shall be allowed, in a civil action in the supreme judicial court, appeals court or in the superior court, in addition to other disbursements allowed by law, the following costs:
For the entry fee, an amount to be apportioned among all plaintiffs for whom entry fees have not been waived, which amount shall equal the aggregate of the entry fees paid by said plaintiffs.
For an attorney's fee, if an issue in law or fact is joined, two dollars and fifty cents; if not, one dollar and twenty-five cents.
For a term fee, five dollars for each sitting while the action is pending, not exceeding three sittings, except by an order of the court. If an action or question of law therein is carried to the full court, two additional term fees may be allowed. If the defendant is defaulted without having appeared, only one term fee shall be allowed.
For travel, such sum as the court may allow.
Source: official Massachusetts text · Last verified 2026-08-27
Frequently Asked Questions About Massachusetts § 23
What does Massachusetts General Laws § 23 cover?
Section 23 ("Supreme judicial, appeals and superior courts; items of costs") 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 § 23?
A common citation format is "Massachusetts General Laws § 23" (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 § 23 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.