Massachusetts H73 amends law to allow plaintiffs to seek court orders for third parties to release names of anonymous internet defendants.

Massachusetts H73 amends Chapter 231 of the General Laws to allow plaintiffs to seek court orders compelling third parties to release the names of anonymous internet defendants. If a plaintiff intends to file a slander action but cannot due to the defendant's anonymity, and the real name is held by a third party, the plaintiff can request the information. The third party must comply within ten days or face a court order from the district court. The district court can impose penalties for non-compliance.

Massachusetts H73 amends law to allow plaintiffs to seek court orders for third parties to release names of anonymous internet defendants.

Massachusetts H73 amends Chapter 231 of the General Laws to allow plaintiffs to seek court orders compelling third parties to release the names of anonymous internet defendants. If a plaintiff intends to file a slander action but cannot due to the defendant's anonymity, and the real name is held by a third party, the plaintiff can request the information. The third party must comply within ten days or face a court order from the district court. The district court can impose penalties for non-compliance.