Massachusetts § 26 - District courts; items of costs
Full text of Massachusetts Massachusetts General Laws § 26 — District courts; items of costs, with citation guidance and answers to common questions.
§ 26. District courts; items of costs
Section 26. There should be allowed in a civil action in a district court, in addition to the other disbursements allowed by law, the following costs:
To the plaintiff—
For the complaint, an amount to be apportioned among all plaintiffs for whom entry fees have not been waived, which amount shall be equal to the aggregate of all entry fees paid.
For an attorney's fee, if there is an appearance for the defendant, two dollars and fifty cents: if not, one dollar and twenty-five cents.
For a term fee, three dollars, if there is an appearance for the defendant; and if not, one dollar.
For travel, such sum as the court may allow.
For attendance, such sum as the court may allow.
To the defendant—
For travel, such sum as the court may allow.
For attendance, such sum as the court may allow.
For a term fee, three dollars.
For an attorney's fee, two dollars and fifty cents.
To the trustee—
For an attorney's fee, fifty cents.
For an answer in writing, twenty-five cents.
For travel and attendance, such sum as the court may allow.
For an answer to interrogatories, such sum as the court may allow.
To an adverse claimant—
Such sum as the court may allow.
Source: official Massachusetts text · Last verified 2026-08-27
Frequently Asked Questions About Massachusetts § 26
What does Massachusetts General Laws § 26 cover?
Section 26 ("District 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 § 26?
A common citation format is "Massachusetts General Laws § 26" (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 § 26 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.