Bill > S782

This bill, concerning small claims, proposes changes to existing Massachusetts General Laws to clarify the process for appealing legal questions that arise in small claims cases. Specifically, it amends Section 23 of Chapter 218 by removing an outdated paragraph and inserting new language that allows questions of law from small claims proceedings, whether decided by a judge or a jury, to be reported or appealed to the appellate division, following the rules for appellate division appeals in district and municipal courts. Additionally, it amends Section 108 of Chapter 231 to explicitly state that an appellate division exists within each district court for the rehearing of legal matters in various civil cases, including small claims, as well as claims for victims of violent crimes and civil motor vehicle infractions. The appellate division is a court that reviews decisions made by lower courts.