In Massachusetts, a patient seeking an abortion who is under age 16 is considered a minor.
Parent/Guardian Consent
Massachusetts law requires consent from one parent or guardian for a minor’s abortion. The parent or guardian must accompany the patient and present a photo ID. The patient must bring an official birth certificate bearing a seal, and the accompanying parent or guardian must be named on it. The name on the photo ID must match the name on the birth certificate; if it does not, documentation of the name change, such as a marriage or divorce record, is required.
Judicial Bypass
Minors who do not want to inform a parent or guardian about their decision to have an abortion may pursue another option. Under the Massachusetts Judicial Bypass Law, a minor may ask a judge for permission to obtain an abortion without parental or guardian consent. The judge does not decide whether the minor may have an abortion; the judge determines whether the minor is mature enough to make an independent decision about the pregnancy.
Upon request, our staff can connect patients with a lawyer who will provide representation at no cost. The lawyer will accompany the minor to court to obtain a Judicial Bypass Document, which is usually issued the same day, allowing the patient to obtain an abortion without parental consent.