Massachusetts § 65 - Condition of recognizance
Full text of Massachusetts Massachusetts General Laws § 65 — Condition of recognizance, with citation guidance and answers to common questions.
§ 65. Condition of recognizance
Section 65. The condition of a recognizance of a person, either with or without surety, binding him to appear before a court or justice to answer to a charge against him or to prosecute an appeal shall be so framed as to bind him personally to appear at the time so expressed, and at any subsequent time to which the case may be continued, unless previously surrendered or discharged, and so from time to time, until the final decree, sentence or order of the court or justice thereon, and to abide such final sentence, order or decree, and not depart without leave. The condition of a recognizance of a person held to answer to a charge before a district court shall be further so framed as to bind him to appear before the district court to answer to the charge or to answer to any indictment which may be returned against him. The superior court shall by rule provide for the forms of recognizances and bail bonds. A recognizance of a person held to answer to a complaint before a district court which is required by law to sit in more than one municipality may, with his consent or at his request, be conditioned for his appearance at the next sitting of the court at any one of said municipalities.
Source: official Massachusetts text · Last verified 2026-08-27
Frequently Asked Questions About Massachusetts § 65
What does Massachusetts General Laws § 65 cover?
Section 65 ("Condition of recognizance") 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 § 65?
A common citation format is "Massachusetts General Laws § 65" (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 § 65 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.