Massachusetts § 42 - Endorsement of pleading or process before filing or entry; residence

Full text of Massachusetts Massachusetts General Laws § 42 — Endorsement of pleading or process before filing or entry; residence, with citation guidance and answers to common questions.

§ 42. Endorsement of pleading or process before filing or entry; residence

Section 42. Any initial pleading or process by which an action is commenced by a plaintiff who is not an inhabitant of the commonwealth, shall before the filing or entry thereof, be endorsed by a responsible person who is such an inhabitant; but if one of the plaintiffs is such an inhabitant, the pleading or process need not be so endorsed. Every endorser, in case of avoidance or inability of the plaintiff, shall be liable to pay all costs awarded against the plaintiff if an action therefor is commenced within one year after the original judgment.

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

Frequently Asked Questions About Massachusetts § 42

What does Massachusetts General Laws § 42 cover?

Section 42 ("Endorsement of pleading or process before filing or entry; residence") 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 § 42?

A common citation format is "Massachusetts General Laws § 42" (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 § 42 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.