Email service of documents
In cases governed by Rule 5(b) of the Mass. Rules of Civil Procedure and Mass. Rules of Domestic Relations Procedure, documents may be served by email upon an attorney of record, or upon a self-represented party if the self-represented party consents in writing.
- Supreme Judicial Court Order concerning email service in cases under Rule 5(b) of Mass. Rules of Civil Procedure
- Probate and Family Court Standing Order 4-20: Order concerning email service in cases under Rule 5 (b) of the Massachusetts Rules of Domestic Relations Procedure
Electronic signatures
Attorneys or self-represented parties may electronically sign documents, unless the court specifically orders otherwise.
- Supreme Judicial Court Order authorizing use of electronic signatures by attorneys and self-represented parties
Judges and clerks may electronically sign court orders, judgments, and notifications.
Remote depositions
Deposition testimony may be taken and oaths administered via audio-visual technology.
Depositions in civil cases can be taken remotely without agreement of the parties or court approval.
- Supreme Judicial Court order regarding remote depositions
Oaths & affirmations
Oaths and affirmations by witnesses may be administered remotely by telephone, videoconference, or comparable means, in any virtual proceeding conducted by the courts of the Commonwealth, except where it would be inconsistent with constitutional or statutory requirements.