Massachusetts General Laws Part IV. Crimes, Punishments and Proceedings in Criminal Cases (Ch. 263-280) Ch. 276, § 73

If, in a suit on a recognizance to prosecute an appeal, the penalty is adjudged forfeited, or if by leave of court such penalty has been paid without suit or before judgment as provided in the preceding section, and any forfeiture accrues by law to a person by reason of the crime of which the appellant was convicted, the court may award to such person the portion of the amount paid to which he is entitled.