Massachusetts § 31 - Non-resident married woman abandoned by husband; conveyance of realty
Full text of Massachusetts Massachusetts General Laws § 31 — Non-resident married woman abandoned by husband; conveyance of realty, with citation guidance and answers to common questions.
§ 31. Non-resident married woman abandoned by husband; conveyance of realty
Section 31. A married woman residing without this commonwealth, and owning in her own right real estate situated herein, whose husband abandoning and not sufficiently maintaining her has absented himself from the place where they last dwelt together, may petition the probate court in any county where the land lies, describing such real estate and praying for authority to sell and convey it in the same manner and with the same effect as if she were sole. The court, after such notice as it may order, if it finds that the petitioner has been abandoned by her husband and that he does not sufficiently maintain her, may authorize the petitioner to sell and convey within one year from the date of such decree such real estate as if she were sole.
Source: official Massachusetts text · Last verified 2026-08-27
Frequently Asked Questions About Massachusetts § 31
What does Massachusetts General Laws § 31 cover?
Section 31 ("Non-resident married woman abandoned by husband; conveyance of realty") 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 § 31?
A common citation format is "Massachusetts General Laws § 31" (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 § 31 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.