Massachusetts § 54A - Defective discharges of mortgages held by entirety; effect

Full text of Massachusetts Massachusetts General Laws § 54A — Defective discharges of mortgages held by entirety; effect, with citation guidance and answers to common questions.

§ 54A. Defective discharges of mortgages held by entirety; effect

Section 54A. After the expiration of a period of ten years from the recording of a discharge or release of a mortgage held by husband and wife as tenants by the entirety and signed by only the husband or the wife, no steps shall be taken by action, entry or otherwise to foreclose or enforce such mortgage or the note or notes secured thereby, unless within such period the spouse who did not sign such discharge or release has recorded in the registry of deeds for the county or district where the mortgage is recorded a notice identifying the mortgage and the book and page of its recording and stating that rights of a tenant by the entirety may be claimed in the mortgage or the note or notes secured thereby. A reference to such notice shall be noted on the margin of the record of the mortgage.

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

Frequently Asked Questions About Massachusetts § 54A

What does Massachusetts General Laws § 54A cover?

Section 54A ("Defective discharges of mortgages held by entirety; effect") 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 § 54A?

A common citation format is "Massachusetts General Laws § 54A" (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 § 54A 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.