Massachusetts § 57 - Victim of human trafficking as affirmative defense to charges of common night walking or common streetwalking
Full text of Massachusetts Massachusetts General Laws § 57 — Victim of human trafficking as affirmative defense to charges of common night walking or common streetwalking, with citation guidance and answers to common questions.
§ 57. Victim of human trafficking as affirmative defense to charges of common night walking or common streetwalking
Section 57. In any prosecution or juvenile delinquency proceeding of a person who is a human trafficking victim, as defined by section 20M of chapter 233, it shall be an affirmative defense to charges of engaging in common night walking or common streetwalking in violation of section 53 of chapter 272 and to charges of violating section 26 or 53A of said chapter 272 that, while a human trafficking victim, such person was under duress or coerced into committing the offenses for which such person is being prosecuted or against whom juvenile delinquency proceedings have commenced.
Source: official Massachusetts text · Last verified 2026-08-27
Frequently Asked Questions About Massachusetts § 57
What does Massachusetts General Laws § 57 cover?
Section 57 ("Victim of human trafficking as affirmative defense to charges of common night walking or common streetwalking") 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 § 57?
A common citation format is "Massachusetts General Laws § 57" (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 § 57 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.