Massachusetts homeowners have 20 calendar days to file an Answer. MA uses both judicial and non-judicial foreclosure. If you were served with a Summons and Complaint, here is how to respond.
Massachusetts allows both judicial and non-judicial foreclosure. Judicial foreclosures are filed in the Land Court (if the property is registered land) or Superior Court. MA requires a 150-day right to cure notice (M.G.L. c. 244, § 35A) and a 90-day right to cure notice for certain loans.
20 Days to Answer
Mass. R. Civ. P. 12(a): 20 days from service. File in Land Court (registered land) or Superior Court (recorded land).
Verify Right to Cure Compliance
MA requires a 150-day right to cure notice (M.G.L. c. 244, § 35A). If not sent or defective, raise as an affirmative defense. This is one of the strongest defenses in MA.
| Deadline | 20 calendar days (Mass. R. Civ. P. 12) |
| Court | MA Land Court or Superior Court |
| Key Notice | 150-day right to cure (M.G.L. c. 244, § 35A) |
| Filing Fee | None for Answer |