Massachusetts § 51 - Release of committed witnesses; proceedings
Full text of Massachusetts Massachusetts General Laws § 51 — Release of committed witnesses; proceedings, with citation guidance and answers to common questions.
§ 51. Release of committed witnesses; proceedings
Section 51. If a witness has been committed because of his inability to furnish sureties for his appearance before the superior court, the jailer shall forthwith give notice to the chief justice of the superior court, who shall direct the district attorney to inquire as to the importance of his testimony and the necessity for detaining him in jail, and the district attorney, if in his opinion the public interest will not suffer by the release of the witness on his own recognizance, shall so report to the chief justice, who may thereupon order the witness to be released upon his own recognizance.
Source: official Massachusetts text · Last verified 2026-08-27
Frequently Asked Questions About Massachusetts § 51
What does Massachusetts General Laws § 51 cover?
Section 51 ("Release of committed witnesses; proceedings") 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 § 51?
A common citation format is "Massachusetts General Laws § 51" (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 § 51 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.