Massachusetts § 72 - Fraternal names; use in publication

Full text of Massachusetts Massachusetts General Laws § 72 — Fraternal names; use in publication, with citation guidance and answers to common questions.

§ 72. Fraternal names; use in publication

Section 72. Whoever, in a newspaper or other publication, or in any written or printed letter, notice, matter or device, without authority of the grand or supreme governing lodge, council, union or other governing body, fraudulently uses or aids in any way in the use of the name, title or common designation of any fraternity, association, society, order, organization or union which has such a governing body, having priority in such use in the commonwealth, or any name, title or designation so nearly resembling the same as to be calculated or likely to deceive; and whoever, without such authority, fraudulently publishes, sells, circulates or distributes any written or printed letter, notice, matter or device, in any way soliciting members of such fraternity, association, society, order, organization or union, or for any alleged or pretended fraternity, association, society, order, organization or union, using any such name, title, designation, or near resemblance thereto; and whoever therein or thereby in any way, without such authority, fraudulently offers to sell, confer, communicate or give information where, of whom or by what means any degree or work, in whole or in part, of such fraternity, association, society, order, organization or union, or of any alleged or pretended fraternity, association, society, order, organization or union using any such name, title or designation or near resemblance thereto, can or may be obtained, conferred or communicated, shall be punished by imprisonment for not more than one year or by a fine of not more than five hundred dollars, or both.

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

Frequently Asked Questions About Massachusetts § 72

What does Massachusetts General Laws § 72 cover?

Section 72 ("Fraternal names; use in publication") 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 § 72?

A common citation format is "Massachusetts General Laws § 72" (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 § 72 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.