Section 4. (a) After examination of the pleadings, affidavits, certified copies of the documentation relative to other custody proceedings and such oral testimony as it may require, the court shall determine the proper parties to the custody proceeding.
(b) During the pendency of the proceeding, the court may require the joinder of additional parties and in that event, the court shall specify that such additional parties be served with process in accordance with section five or six, as applicable, or that they be otherwise notified in such manner as the court shall determine.
Structure Massachusetts General Laws
Part II - Real and Personal Property and Domestic Relations
Title III - Domestic Relations
Chapter 209b - Massachusetts Child Custody Jurisdiction Act
Section 3 - Affidavits; Contents; Amendment; Examination Under Oath; Disclosure of Addresses
Section 4 - Parties; Joinder; Service of Process
Section 5 - Notice and Opportunity to Be Heard; Proper Parties
Section 6 - Notice; Nonresidents; Proof of Service
Section 7 - Jurisdiction; Determination of Appropriate Forum; Factors
Section 8 - Personal Appearance Before Court; Expenses
Section 9 - Testimony of Witnesses Outside State
Section 13 - Preservation of Record; Time; Copies
Section 14 - International Custody Determinations; Recognition