Massachusetts § 31 - Use of seals; imitation or counterfeit seals
Full text of Massachusetts Massachusetts General Laws § 31 — Use of seals; imitation or counterfeit seals, with citation guidance and answers to common questions.
§ 31. Use of seals; imitation or counterfeit seals
Section 31. The deputy director and town and district sealers shall keep seals for their use. The seal of the deputy director shall bear the letters ''C.M.'' and those of the sealers shall be of a type approved by the deputy director. Any sealer neglecting to keep such a seal shall forfeit not more than twenty dollars, and whoever, without being duly authorized thereto, impersonates a sealer or deputy by the use of a seal or otherwise, or has in his possession an imitation or counterfeit of the seal used by a sealer or deputy shall be punished by a fine of not more than fifty dollars or shall be subject to a civil citation as provided in section 29A.
Source: official Massachusetts text · Last verified 2026-08-27
Frequently Asked Questions About Massachusetts § 31
What does Massachusetts General Laws § 31 cover?
Section 31 ("Use of seals; imitation or counterfeit seals") 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.