Massachusetts § 8 - Appeal from decree of forfeiture; recognizance; jury trial; conformity to criminal cases; disposition of articles
Full text of Massachusetts Massachusetts General Laws § 8 — Appeal from decree of forfeiture; recognizance; jury trial; conformity to criminal cases; disposition of articles, with citation guidance and answers to common questions.
§ 8. Appeal from decree of forfeiture; recognizance; jury trial; conformity to criminal cases; disposition of articles
Section 8. A person aggrieved by a decree of forfeiture of a district court may appeal therefrom to the superior court; but before his appeal is allowed, he shall recognize to the commonwealth in the sum of two hundred dollars, with sufficient surety or sureties, to prosecute his appeal and to pay all such expenses as may thereafter arise, if final judgment is rendered against the articles adjudged forfeited, and to abide the judgment of the superior court thereon; and upon such appeal, any question of fact shall be tried by a jury. All proceedings in the superior court, including the right of exception, shall conform so far as may be to proceedings in criminal cases; and if, upon final judgment, the articles are adjudged forfeited, they shall be disposed of under the direction of the superior court as they might have been disposed of had no appeal been taken.
Source: official Massachusetts text · Last verified 2026-08-27
Frequently Asked Questions About Massachusetts § 8
What does Massachusetts General Laws § 8 cover?
Section 8 ("Appeal from decree of forfeiture; recognizance; jury trial; conformity to criminal cases; disposition of articles") 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 § 8?
A common citation format is "Massachusetts General Laws § 8" (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 § 8 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.