Massachusetts § 5 - Foreign express businesses; appointment of general agent
Full text of Massachusetts Massachusetts General Laws § 5 — Foreign express businesses; appointment of general agent, with citation guidance and answers to common questions.
§ 5. Foreign express businesses; appointment of general agent
Section 5. Every association of persons who are not inhabitants of this commonwealth which does an express business therein shall in writing appoint a person, who is a citizen and a resident thereof, to be a general agent, upon whom all lawful processes against such persons may be served with like effect as if served on said persons; and said writing or power of attorney shall contain an agreement on the part of the persons making it that the service of any lawful process against it or them on said general agent shall be of the same legal force and validity as such service on said persons or any of them. The power of attorney shall be filed in the office of the state secretary, and copies certified by him shall be taken as sufficient evidence and proof thereof. Such agency shall be continued so long as such express business is done in this commonwealth, and the power of attorney shall not be revoked until a similar power is given to another person and filed as aforesaid.
Source: official Massachusetts text · Last verified 2026-08-27
Frequently Asked Questions About Massachusetts § 5
What does Massachusetts General Laws § 5 cover?
Section 5 ("Foreign express businesses; appointment of general agent") 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 § 5?
A common citation format is "Massachusetts General Laws § 5" (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 § 5 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.