Massachusetts § 79 - Holder of encumbrance; summoning; examination
Full text of Massachusetts Massachusetts General Laws § 79 — Holder of encumbrance; summoning; examination, with citation guidance and answers to common questions.
§ 79. Holder of encumbrance; summoning; examination
Section 79. Personal property upon which a mortgage or lien is claimed, or which is claimed to have been sold under a contract of conditional sale reserving title in the vendor, may be attached as if unencumbered; and the mortgagee, pledgee, lienor or conditional vendor, or his assigns, may be summoned in the same action in which the property is attached as the trustee of the mortgagor, pledgor, lienee or conditional vendee, or his assigns, to answer such questions as may be put to him by the court or by its order relative to the consideration of the alleged mortgage, pledge, lien or contract of conditional sale, and the amount due thereon.
Source: official Massachusetts text · Last verified 2026-08-27
Frequently Asked Questions About Massachusetts § 79
What does Massachusetts General Laws § 79 cover?
Section 79 ("Holder of encumbrance; summoning; examination") 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 § 79?
A common citation format is "Massachusetts General Laws § 79" (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 § 79 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.