Massachusetts Eviction court process & timeline

How does the eviction court process work in Massachusetts?

In a Massachusetts summary process (eviction) case for nonpayment of rent, if the tenancy is ending only for nonpayment, the nonpayment came from financial hardship and the tenant shows a pending application for emergency rental assistance, the court must grant a continuance, stay execution, and not enter judgment until the application is approved or denied. Statute text: "grant a continuance for a period as the court may deem just and reasonable" (Mass. Gen. Laws c. 239, § 15(b)).

Verified Source: Mass. Gen. Laws c. 239, § 15(b) · last checked 2026-10-17