So you live in Massachusetts. It all depends on who you are. Do you have priors? Drug charges? Growing in your parents closet? Full house grow?
What's the number one rule in stealth growing? Keep your mouth shut.
Don't link NORML? Why? Because they have the exact information you're asking including potential jail term for amount of plants you're growing?
http://norml.org/laws
Age does have an impact on germination. Throw them in a shot glass with water for 24-48 hours then in paper towel.
Sometimes the shell needs assistance.