Saugus is a town in Essex County, Massachusetts, with a population of approximately 26,000 residents. In recent years, the town has been renovated to include a new public library and a diverse mix of businesses, famous restaurants, and recreational activities.

In October 2009, Saugus resident Jerry Breen settled a lawsuit against Saugus for $450,000, which had alleged that the town violated his civil rights after refusing to grant him an entertainment license to hold late night parties at his roller skating rink. Board members had voted against the late night parties following an alleged stabbing that took place on a ramp leading into Breen’s skating rink. Breen, however, contended that no stabbing took place. Breen claimed that the board’s decision to permit other establishments to host late night parties while denying the same privilege to Breen was arbitrary and a violation of his civil rights.

The court system of Massachusetts is complex. In regards to legal issues arising out of Saugus, the Essex Superior Court has original jurisdiction over criminal matters and civil actions over $25,000, and has exclusive jurisdiction over first degree murder. The Lynn District Court hears a wide range of criminal, civil, housing, juvenile, and mental health cases. Its criminal jurisdiction extends to all felonies punishable by a sentence up to five years, and many other specific felonies with greater potential penalties, as well as all misdemeanor, and all violations of city ordinances. The District Court also presides over civil disputes up to $25,000.

The Essex Probate and Family Court has jurisdiction over family matters such as divorce, paternity, child support, custody, visitation, adoption, termination of parental rights, and abuse prevention. Probate matters include wills, administrations, guardianships, conservatorships, and change of name. The Land Court, located in Boston, has statewide exclusive jurisdiction over the registration of title to real property, title disputes, and foreclosure and redemption of real estate tax liens. Essex County falls under the jurisdiction of the Northeast Housing Court, which presides over the use of any real property. Lastly, the Essex County Juvenile Court has jurisdiction over delinquency, children in need of services, care and protection petitions, adoption, guardianship, termination of parental rights proceedings, and youthful offender cases.

Attempting to understand the confusing jurisdictional overlap is a waste of your time. Hiring an attorney with knowledge of the intricate court system will significantly ease the anxiety associated with legal matters and can save you valuable time and money. LegalMatch can help you find an attorney in the Saugas area specializing in your case. Simply fill out our free and confidential online questionnaire and wait for attorneys to respond to your inquiry.

For more information on the Saugus and Massachusetts legal system, please visit the following sites: