Massachusetts § 3 - Return of notice; publication

Full text of Massachusetts Massachusetts General Laws § 3 — Return of notice; publication, with citation guidance and answers to common questions.

§ 3. Return of notice; publication

Section 3. The return day of said notice shall be not less than thirty nor more than sixty days after its date. The court shall order said notice to be published once in each of three successive weeks in one or more newspapers within the commonwealth, and to be posted in two or more conspicuous places in the town within the commonwealth where the absentee last resided or was known to have been either temporarily or permanently and upon each such parcel of his or her land within the commonwealth. The court shall order said notice to be mailed to the last known address of the absentee and so much of said notice as relates to land to be recorded in the registry of deeds for the county and district where the land is located. The court may order other and further notice to be given within or without the commonwealth.

Source: official Massachusetts text · Last verified 2026-08-27

Frequently Asked Questions About Massachusetts § 3

What does Massachusetts General Laws § 3 cover?

Section 3 ("Return of notice; publication") 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.