Rule 4 – Process

by | May 13, 2021 | Civil Law, Massachusetts

(a) Summons: Issuance. Upon commencing the action the plaintiff or his attorney shall deliver a copy of the complaint and a summons for service to the sheriff, deputy sheriff, or special sheriff; any other person duly authorized by law; a person specifically appointed...

Rule 3 – Commencement of Action

by | May 13, 2021 | Civil Law, Massachusetts

A civil action is commenced by (1) mailing to the clerk of the proper court by certified or registered mail a complaint and an entry fee prescribed by law, or (2) filing such complaint and an entry fee with such clerk. Actions brought pursuant to G.L. c. 185 for...

Rule 2 – One Form of Action

by | May 13, 2021 | Civil Law, Massachusetts

There shall be one form of action to be known as “civil action”.Mass. R. Civ. P. 2Effective July 1, 1974.Reporter’s Notes: “Merger” of Law and Equity, refers only to the procedure involved, i.e., the manner of framing and trying the...

Rule 1 – Scope of Rules

by | May 13, 2021 | Civil Law, Massachusetts

These rules govern the procedure before a single justice of the Supreme Judicial Court or of the Appeals Court, and in the following departments of the Trial Court: the Superior Court, the Housing Court the Probate and Family Court in proceedings seeking equitable...