Massachusetts § 3 - Conservators of peace; powers of justices
Full text of Massachusetts Massachusetts General Laws § 3 — Conservators of peace; powers of justices, with citation guidance and answers to common questions.
§ 3. Conservators of peace; powers of justices
Section 3. The justices of the supreme judicial court and of the superior court, justices and special justices of district courts, by virtue of their offices, and justices of the peace shall be conservators of the peace throughout the commonwealth and as such may, upon view of an affray, riot, assault or battery, without a warrant in writing, command the assistance of every sheriff, deputy sheriff, constable and police officer and of all other persons present for its suppression and for the arrest of all persons concerned therein as provided in chapters two hundred and seventy-five and two hundred and seventy-six. Persons so arrested shall be taken before a district court or trial justice for examination.
Source: official Massachusetts text · Last verified 2026-08-27
Frequently Asked Questions About Massachusetts § 3
What does Massachusetts General Laws § 3 cover?
Section 3 ("Conservators of peace; powers of justices") 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 § 3?
A common citation format is "Massachusetts General Laws § 3" (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 § 3 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.