Bill > H1730

This bill establishes a specialized Foreclosure Review Division within the Massachusetts Superior Court to handle complex mortgage and foreclosure-related legal matters. The new division will have jurisdiction over a wide range of foreclosure-related cases, including actions concerning foreclosure validity, title disputes, eviction proceedings, mortgage loan modifications, and even criminal matters related to foreclosure. It will be staffed with carefully selected personnel, including justices, court administrators, clerks, mediators, and facilitators, with all employees who interact with litigants required to be certified neutrals. The division will be organized into 4-6 sessions statewide, provide resources for self-represented litigants, and offer alternative dispute resolution services. An advisory board will be established to assist the division, comprised of representatives from various legal and advocacy backgrounds, including experts in areas like consumer rights, real estate, and access to justice. The division is initially established for a five-year term, with provisions for potential renewal, and will have the ability to transfer or remove foreclosure-related cases from other court departments. The bill aims to create a more streamlined, specialized approach to resolving complex foreclosure legal issues, with a focus on efficiency and supporting litigants through the process.

Justice

https://malegislature.gov/Bills/194/H1730