Massachusetts § 4 - Parties without actual notice; remedies

Full text of Massachusetts Massachusetts General Laws § 4 — Parties without actual notice; remedies, with citation guidance and answers to common questions.

§ 4. Parties without actual notice; remedies

Section 4. A party against whom, without other notice than publication in a newspaper, a judgment or decree has been rendered under section two and whose right is barred thereby, may recover from the person in whose favor such judgment or decree was entered, or from his executors, administrators, heirs or devisees, in accordance with chapter one hundred and ninety-seven, the value at the time action is brought of any interest or right, except of improvements made by the defendants, of which he may have been deprived by such judgment or decree, unless at that time an action which, but for such judgment or decree, he might have maintained for the recovery of such interest or the enforcement of such right would have been barred by the statute of limitations.

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

Frequently Asked Questions About Massachusetts § 4

What does Massachusetts General Laws § 4 cover?

Section 4 ("Parties without actual notice; remedies") 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.