Bill > S1184

This bill proposes to modify Massachusetts law regarding summary process (legal term for eviction proceedings) by establishing a mandatory two-tier process for all eviction cases. The first tier is designed as a preliminary hearing where parties can explore potential resolutions, discuss available resources, attempt mediation, and identify next steps without the risk of a default judgment or case dismissal if either party fails to appear. In the second tier, for cases not resolved during the first hearing, the Clerk's Office will send a written notice to the parties scheduling a trial date. The bill's preamble emphasizes that this legislation aims to provide housing stability by preventing unnecessary evictions and creating opportunities for mutual resolution between landlords and tenants. The bill is characterized as an emergency law, intended to immediately preserve public safety and health by offering a more collaborative approach to resolving potential eviction situations before they escalate to a formal trial.

Justice

https://malegislature.gov/Bills/194/S1184