Massachusetts § 4 - Courts and their jurisdictions; separate estates of married women; paternity, custody and support of minors
Full text of Massachusetts Massachusetts General Laws § 4 — Courts and their jurisdictions; separate estates of married women; paternity, custody and support of minors, with citation guidance and answers to common questions.
§ 4. Courts and their jurisdictions; separate estates of married women; paternity, custody and support of minors
Section 4. Probate courts shall have exclusive original jurisdiction of actions by married women relative to their separate estate, of actions relative to the care, custody, education and maintenance of minor children provided for by sections thirty and thirty-seven of chapter two hundred and nine, and of actions relative to paternity, support, and custody of minor children provided for in chapter two hundred and nine C and shall have jurisdiction concurrently with the district and Boston municipal court departments of actions relative to paternity or support as provided in chapter two hundred and nine C and actions for support as provided in section thirty-two F of chapter two hundred and nine and actions relative to paternity or support as provided in two hundred and nine D.
Source: official Massachusetts text · Last verified 2026-08-27
Frequently Asked Questions About Massachusetts § 4
What does Massachusetts General Laws § 4 cover?
Section 4 ("Courts and their jurisdictions; separate estates of married women; paternity, custody and support of minors") 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 § 4?
A common citation format is "Massachusetts General Laws § 4" (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 § 4 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.