Massachusetts § 3 - Formation of corporation; selection of officers; certification of organization
Full text of Massachusetts Massachusetts General Laws § 3 — Formation of corporation; selection of officers; certification of organization, with citation guidance and answers to common questions.
§ 3. Formation of corporation; selection of officers; certification of organization
Section 3. At such meeting, by vote of a majority in number and interest of all of the proprietors, they may organize themselves as a corporation under this chapter; and they may thereupon choose a clerk, treasurer, collector and such committees and other officers as they deem necessary for the management of their affairs, and may agree upon and direct the manner of calling future meetings. Each officer chosen shall hold his office until his successor is qualified. The clerk, treasurer and collector shall forthwith make, sign and swear to a certificate setting forth the name of the corporation, its purpose, the town and county where it is located, the date of the meeting for organization and any adjournments thereof, and any other facts of importance contained in the proceedings of organization. The certificate and the record of the meeting, including any by-laws, shall be submitted to the state secretary, who shall examine them and who may require such amendments thereof or such additional information as he deems necessary. If he finds that the provisions of law relative to the organization of the corporation have been complied with, he shall endorse his approval on the certificate. The certificate shall, upon payment of a fee to be determined annually by the commissioner of administration under the provision of section three B of chapter seven, be filed in the office of the state secretary; otherwise, the organization shall be void.
Source: official Massachusetts text · Last verified 2026-08-27
Frequently Asked Questions About Massachusetts § 3
What does Massachusetts General Laws § 3 cover?
Section 3 ("Formation of corporation; selection of officers; certification of organization") 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.