Select your state

Civil procedure

Civil procedure includes the procedures and rules that govern civil (non-criminal) litigation in state and federal courts. Many states have rules of civil procedure written by the state supreme court, for example, and other states include their rules of procedure in state statutes enacted by the state legislature.

In Massachusetts, civil procedure is governed by a combination of state statutes and rules promulgated by the judiciary. The Massachusetts Rules of Civil Procedure, which are largely modeled after the Federal Rules of Civil Procedure, provide the framework for conducting civil litigation in the state's courts. These rules cover various aspects of the legal process, including the filing of lawsuits, service of process, motions, discovery, trial procedures, and appeals. The rules are designed to ensure fairness and efficiency in the legal process and are periodically updated to reflect changes in the law and legal practice. Additionally, Massachusetts General Laws (MGL) contain statutes that address specific areas of civil law and procedure, complementing the rules set by the state's Supreme Court. It is important for parties involved in civil litigation to understand these rules and statutes, as they dictate the proper procedures for pursuing legal claims in Massachusetts courts.

Legal Articles

State Statutes

abate lawsuit agreed case altering or amending judgment amending pleadings appeals

closing argument compel arbitration consolidation of lawsuits continuance

declaratory judgment default judgment defendant's answer to lawsuit directed verdict discovery dismissal for want of prosecution disqualification of attorney disqualification of judge

e - discovery e - filing evidence ex parte hearing exclude expert witness

findings of fact, conclusions of law forum non conveniens

hearsay

injunctions interpleader intervening in a lawsuit (intervention)

judgment judgment as a matter of law judgment notwithstanding the verdict (JNOV)judgment nunc pro tunc judicial notice jury charge jury selection jury verdict

motion in limine motion to dismiss

new trial nonsuit

offer of judgment or settlement offer of proof and bill of exception opening statement

personal jurisdiction plaintiff's petition or complaint pretrial conference

remand from federal court to state court remittitur removal from state court to federal court res judicata and collateral estoppel right to jury trial

sanctions, contempt separate trials / bifurcated trial serving defendant with lawsuit severance of claims special appearance special exceptions special master / master in chancery subject matter jurisdiction summary judgment summons and complaint

temporary restraining order (TRO)

venue

Individual & Family Legal Plan

As a LegalFix member, you'll get expert legal services from a local law firm that treats you like an important client. Don't wait—be prepared for life's inevitable legal challenges starting today. And ask your employer, credit union, or membership group about preferred pricing opportunities.

Civil procedure

Individual & Family Legal Plan

Articles

Massachusetts State Code

Massachusetts State Code

Civil procedure

Articles