Massachusetts § 38 - Recording of unacknowledged deed; effect
Full text of Massachusetts Massachusetts General Laws § 38 — Recording of unacknowledged deed; effect, with citation guidance and answers to common questions.
§ 38. Recording of unacknowledged deed; effect
Section 38. A person interested in a deed which has not been acknowledged may, before or during proceedings before a court for proof of its execution, file in the proper registry of deeds a copy thereof, compared with the original by the register; and the filing of such copy shall for thirty days thereafter have the same effect as the recording of the deed, if the deed is within that time duly proved and recorded; or if, at the expiration of said thirty days, such proceedings are pending, the effect of filing such copy shall continue until the expiration of seven days after the termination of such proceedings.
Source: official Massachusetts text · Last verified 2026-08-27
Frequently Asked Questions About Massachusetts § 38
What does Massachusetts General Laws § 38 cover?
Section 38 ("Recording of unacknowledged deed; effect") 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 § 38?
A common citation format is "Massachusetts General Laws § 38" (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 § 38 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.