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Statutes: Montana

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Statutes: Montana

Updated: 
October 25, 2024

The statutes on this page are current through the end of the 2023 Session of the Montana Legislature. Please check to make sure there have been no changes since this time. The Montana Code can be found online at the Montana Legislature website.

Title 25. Civil Procedure

Updated: 
October 25, 2024

Chapter 2. Venue

Updated: 
October 25, 2024

Part 1. Proper Place of Trial - Venue

Updated: 
October 25, 2024

25-2-118. Residence of defendant

Updated: 
October 25, 2024

(1) Except as provided in subsection (3), the proper place of trial for all civil actions is the county in which the defendants or any of them reside at the commencement of the action.

(2) If none of the defendants reside in the state, the proper place of trial for a contract action is as provided in 25-2-121(1)(b) or (2) and the proper place of trial for a tort action is as provided in 25-2-122(2) or (3).

(3) The proper place of trial for an action brought pursuant to Title 40, chapter 4, is the county in which the petitioner or the respondent has resided during the 90 days preceding the filing of the action.

Chapter 35. Small Claims Procedure--Justice's Court

Updated: 
October 25, 2024

Part 5. General Provisions

Updated: 
October 25, 2024

25-35-502. Jurisdiction

Updated: 
October 25, 2024

(1) The small claims court has jurisdiction over all actions for the recovery of money or specific personal property when the amount claimed does not exceed $7,000, exclusive of costs, and the defendant can be served within the county where the action is commenced.

(2) The small claims court has jurisdiction over an interpleader under 25-35-508 in which the amount claimed does not exceed $7,000.

Title 40. Family Law

Updated: 
October 25, 2024

Chapter 4. Termination of Marriage, Child Custody, Support

Updated: 
October 25, 2024

Part 1. Separation--Dissolution of Marriage

Updated: 
October 25, 2024

40-4-126. Automatic economic restraining order

Updated: 
October 25, 2024

(1) On the filing of a petition for declaration of invalidity of marriage, a petition for dissolution of marriage, or a petition for legal separation, the clerk of the district court shall issue a summons and shall include with the summons an automatic economic restraining order that provides as follows:

“AUTOMATIC ECONOMIC RESTRAINING ORDER

It is hereby ordered:

(1) The parties are restrained from transferring, encumbering, concealing, or in any way disposing of, without the written consent of the other party or an order of the court, any marital property, except:

(a) for expenses necessary to reasonably maintain the marital standard of living or for the necessities of life, such as food, clothing, shelter, necessary health care expenses, transportation to and from work, and child care, taking into consideration additional living expenses arising out of a party obtaining a second household and current available income;

(b) in the customary and usual course of operating an existing business; or

(c) for the purpose of paying a reasonable amount for professional fees and costs relating to a proceeding under Title 40, chapter 1, part 4, Title 40, chapter 4, or Title 40, chapter 15.

(2) Each party shall file a notice with the court of any proposed extraordinary expenditure, proposed revocation of a nonprobate transfer, or proposed elimination of a right of survivorship to property at least 14 days before the action is taken.

(a) The notice must include:

(i) the proposed action and when the action is intended to occur;

(ii) how the proposed action may impact the marital estate; and

(iii) why the proposed action is necessary at that time.

(b) The notice is not sufficient unless the notice contains the following statement: “The moving party’s proposed action will be permitted without further proceedings or order of the court unless within 14 days of the date of filing of the notice you file with the court and serve on all persons entitled to notice a response objecting to the proposed action, which states the reasons for your objection.”

(c) If the other party files an objection to the proposed action before the expiration of the 14-day period, the party proposing to take the action is prohibited from taking the proposed action until the court rules on the proposed action.

(d) The burden of justifying the proposed action is on the party proposing the action. The court may award reasonable attorney fees if a party makes an unreasonable request for or an unreasonable objection to the proposed action.

(e) A “nonprobate transfer” means an instrument, other than a will, that makes a transfer of property on death, including a revocable trust, a pay-on-death account in a financial institution, a transfer on death registration of personal property, or a revocable transfer on death deed.

(3) The parties are restrained from:

(a) canceling jointly held credit cards or terminating signatory authority of the other party on a credit card;

(b) incurring unreasonable debt, including but not limited to further borrowing against any credit line secured by the family residence, further encumbrancing of any assets, or unreasonably using credit cards or cash advances against credit cards, except as provided for in subsections (1)(a) through (1)(c) or subsection (2);

(c) except as allowed by subsections (1)(a) through (1)(c) or subsection (2), making any withdrawal for any purpose or borrowing from any deferred compensation, retirement, profit-sharing, pension, death, or other employee benefit plan or employee savings plan or from any individual retirement account or Keogh account;

(d) except as allowed by subsections (1)(a) through (1)(c) or subsection (2), withdrawing or borrowing in any manner all or any part of the cash surrender value of any life insurance policies on either party or any of their children;

(e) changing or in any manner altering the beneficiary designation on any life insurance policies on either party or their children or changing or in any manner altering the beneficiary on any other account or asset;

(f) canceling, altering, or allowing to lapse any existing property, life, automobile, or health insurance policies insuring the parties’ or children’s property or persons;

(g) negotiating any instrument, check, draft, income tax refund, insurance payment, or dividends payable jointly to the parties or individually to the other party without the personal signature or prior written consent of the other party;

(h) opening, diverting, or withholding mail, e-mail, or other electronic communications addressed to the other party, except a party may open mail, e-mail, or other electronic communications addressed to both parties or submit a notice of change of the party’s individual mail, e-mail, or other electronic address; and

(i) without objectively reasonable justification, intentionally or knowingly damaging or destroying the property of the parties or of either party during the pendency of this action, specifically including but not limited to any electronically stored materials, electronic communications, or financial records, without order of the court or written consent of the other party.

(4) Unless otherwise ordered by the court, a party is not restrained from:

(a) creating, modifying, or revoking a will;

(b) revoking or changing a power of attorney; or

(c) creating an unfunded revocable or irrevocable trust.

(5) This order does not adversely affect the rights, title, or interest of a purchaser, encumbrancer, or lessee for value if the purchaser, encumbrancer, or lessee does not have actual knowledge of this order.

(6) The court may expand, limit, modify, or revoke this order, and nothing prevents either party from requesting such relief. Furthermore, the parties, with joint agreement, may waive in writing some or all of the provisions of this order.

(7) The parties shall serve preliminary financial disclosures within 60 days of service of the petition for dissolution, declaration of invalidity of marriage, or legal separation pursuant to 40-4-252.

(8) This order is binding on the petitioner on filing of the petition, and this order is binding on the respondent on service of the petition.

(9) In issuing any temporary orders or in a final decree, the court may consider any action taken by the petitioner within a reasonable time prior to filing of the petition that would otherwise have constituted a violation of this order had this order been issued at the time.

(10) Except as otherwise ordered by the court, this order is dissolved on dismissal of the action or granting of the declaration of invalidity, dissolution of marriage, legal separation, or other final order.

(11) Failure to follow this automatic economic restraining order is subject to enforcement by the court, on a motion to the court. The court may issue any appropriate enforcement order as set forth in 40-4-126(4), including, if appropriate, sanctions and all remedies for contempt of court.”

(2) An automatic economic restraining order entered pursuant to this section, unless otherwise ordered by the court, is dissolved upon dismissal of the action or granting of the petition for declaration of invalidity, dissolution of marriage, legal separation, or other final order.

(3) Nothing in this section precludes a party from applying to the court for an order to expand, limit, modify, or revoke the automatic economic restraining order.

(4) If a party fails to comply with the automatic economic restraining order, the other party may move the court to grant an appropriate order, including, if appropriate, sanctions and all remedies for contempt of court.

40-4-104. Dissolution of marriage--legal separation

Updated: 
October 25, 2024

(1) The district court shall enter a decree of dissolution of marriage if:

(a) the court finds that one of the parties, at the time the action was commenced, was domiciled in this state, as provided in 25-2-118, or was stationed in this state while a member of the armed services and that the domicile or military presence has been maintained for 90 days preceding the filing of the action;

(b) the court finds that the marriage is irretrievably broken, which findings must be supported by evidence:

(i) that the parties have lived separate and apart for a period of more than 180 days preceding the commencement of this proceeding; or

(ii) that there is serious marital discord that adversely affects the attitude of one or both of the parties towards the marriage; and

(c) to the extent it has jurisdiction to do so, the court has considered, approved, or made provision for parenting, the support of any child entitled to support, the maintenance of either spouse, and the disposition of property.(2) If a party requests a decree of legal separation rather than a decree of dissolution of marriage, the court shall grant the decree in that form unless the other party objects.

40-4-107. Irretrievable breakdown

Updated: 
October 25, 2024

(1) If both of the parties by petition or otherwise have stated under oath or affirmation that the marriage is irretrievably broken or one of the parties has so stated and the other has not denied it, the court, after hearing, shall make a finding whether the marriage is irretrievably broken.

(2) If one of the parties has denied under oath or affirmation that the marriage is irretrievably broken, the court shall consider all relevant factors, including the circumstances that gave rise to filing the petition and the prospect of reconciliation, and shall:

(a) make a finding whether the marriage is irretrievably broken; or

(b) continue the matter for further hearing not fewer than 30 or more than 60 days later or as soon thereafter as the matter may be reached on the court’s calendar and may suggest to the parties that they seek counseling. At the adjourned hearing the court shall make a finding whether the marriage is irretrievably broken.

(3) A finding of irretrievable breakdown is a determination that there is no reasonable prospect of reconciliation.

40-4-121. Temporary order for maintenance or support, temporary injunction, or temporary restraining order.

Updated: 
October 25, 2024

(1) In a proceeding for dissolution of marriage or for legal separation or in a proceeding for disposition of property or for maintenance or support following dissolution of the marriage by a court that lacked personal jurisdiction over the absent spouse, either party may move for temporary maintenance, temporary support of a child of the marriage entitled to support, or a temporary family support order. When a party is receiving public assistance, as defined in 40-5-201, for the minor children at issue or when a party receives public assistance during the life of a temporary family support order, the temporary family support order must designate separately the amounts of temporary child support and temporary maintenance, if any. The temporary child support order or the designated child support portion of the family support order must be determined as required in 40-4-204. The motion must be accompanied by an affidavit setting forth the factual basis for the motion, the amounts requested, a list of marital estate liabilities, a statement of sources of income of the parties and of a child of the marriage entitled to support, and, in the case of a motion for a temporary family support order, a proposal designating the party responsible for paying each liability. If ordered by a court, a temporary family support order must, without prejudice, direct one or both parties to pay, out of certain income sources, liabilities of the marital estate during the pendency of the action, including maintenance liabilities for a party or support of a child of the marriage entitled to support. If income sources are insufficient to meet the marital estate periodic liabilities, the temporary family support order may direct that certain liabilities be paid from assets of the marital estate. At any time during the proceedings, the court may order any temporary family support payments to be designated as temporary maintenance, temporary child support, or partial property distribution, retroactive to the date of the motion for a temporary family support order. When a party obtains public assistance, as defined in 40-5-201, or applies for services under Title IV-D of the Social Security Act, after the court has issued a temporary family support order, the petitioner shall promptly move the court for designation of the parts, if any, of the temporary family support order that are maintenance and child support and the court shall promptly so designate, determining the child support obligation as required in 40-4-204.

(2) As a part of a motion for temporary maintenance, temporary support of a child, or a temporary family support order or by independent motion accompanied by affidavit, either party may request that the court issue a temporary injunction for any of the following relief:

(a) restricting, enhancing, ordering, or otherwise modifying or reaffirming the restrained or permitted provisions of the temporary economic restraining order pursuant to 40-4-126;

(b) enjoining a party from molesting or disturbing the peace of the other party or of any family member or from stalking, as defined in 45-5-220;

(c) excluding a party from the family home or from the home of the other party upon a showing that physical or emotional harm would otherwise result;

(d) enjoining a party from removing a child from the jurisdiction of the court;

(e) ordering a party to complete counseling, including alcohol or chemical dependency counseling or treatment;

(f) providing other injunctive relief proper in the circumstances; and

(g) providing additional relief available under Title 40, chapter 15.

(3) A person may seek the relief provided for in subsection (2) without filing a petition under this part for a dissolution of marriage or legal separation by filing a verified petition requesting relief under Title 27, chapter 19, part 3. Any temporary injunction entered under this subsection must be for a fixed period of time, not to exceed 1 year, and may be modified as provided in Title 27, chapter 19, part 4, and 40-4-208, as appropriate.

(4) The court may issue a temporary restraining order for a period not to exceed 21 days without requiring notice to the other party only if it finds on the basis of the moving affidavit or other evidence that irreparable injury will result to the moving party if an order is not issued until the time for responding has elapsed.

(5) The party against whom a temporary injunction is sought must be served with notice and a copy of the motion and is entitled to a hearing on the motion. A response may be filed within 21 days after service of notice of motion or at the time specified in the temporary restraining order.

(6) At the time of the hearing, the court shall:

(a) inform both parties that the temporary injunction may contain a provision or provisions that limit the rights of one or both parties relating to firearms under state law or a provision or provisions that may subject one or both parties to state or federal laws that limit their rights relating to firearms; and

(b) determine whether good cause exists for the injunction to continue for 1 year.

(7) On the basis of the showing made and in conformity with 40-4-203 and 40-4-204, the court may issue a temporary injunction and an order for temporary maintenance, temporary child support, or temporary family support in amounts and on terms just and proper in the circumstance.

(8) A temporary order or injunction, entered pursuant to Title 40, chapter 15, or this section:

(a) may be revoked or modified on a showing by affidavit of the facts necessary to revocation or modification of a final decree under 40-4-208;

(b) terminates upon order of the court or when the petition is voluntarily dismissed and, in the case of a temporary family support order, upon entry of the decree of dissolution; and

(c) when issued under this section, must conspicuously bear the following: “Violation of this order is a criminal offense under 45-5-220 or 45-5-626”.

(9) When the petitioner has fled the parties’ residence, notice of the petitioner’s new residence must be withheld except by order of the court for good cause shown.(10) The court shall seal any qualified domestic relations order, as defined in section 414(p) of the Internal Revenue Code, 26 U.S.C. 414(p), that is issued under this part except for access by the pension plan administrator of the plan for which benefits are being distributed by the order, the child support enforcement division, the parties, and each party’s counsel of record.

40-4-122. Forms -- distribution -- filing

Updated: 
October 25, 2024

The attorney general shall prepare uniform sample instructions and petition and order forms necessary for allowing an applicant to obtain a temporary restraining order under 40-4-121 and uniform sample affidavits and orders of inability to pay filing fees or other costs. The attorney general shall distribute samples of the restraining order and the inability-to-pay-filing-fees order forms to the clerk of the district court in each county and to justice, city, and municipal courts. The clerk of the district court, justices of the peace, city, and municipal courts shall make forms available to the public at no charge.

40-4-123. Jurisdiction and venue

Updated: 
October 25, 2024

(1) District courts, municipal courts, justices’ courts, and city courts have concurrent jurisdiction to hear and issue orders under 40-4-121.

(2) The municipal judge, justice of the peace, or city court judge shall on motion suspend all further proceedings in the action and certify the pleading and any orders to the clerk of the district court of the county where the action was begun if an action for declaration of invalidity of a marriage, legal separation, or dissolution of marriage or for parenting is pending between the parties. From the time of the certification of the pleadings and any orders to the clerk, the district court has the same jurisdiction over the action as if it had been commenced in district court.

(3) An action brought under 40-4-121 may be tried in the county in which either party resides or in which the physical abuse was committed.

(4) The right to petition for relief may not be denied because the plaintiff has vacated the residence or household to avoid abuse.

40-4-124. Review or removal -- district court

Updated: 
October 25, 2024

(1) An order issued by a municipal court, justice’s court, or city court pursuant to 40-4-121 is immediately reviewable by the judge of the district court at chambers upon the filing of a notice of appeal. The district judge may affirm, dissolve, or modify an order of a municipal court, justice’s court, or city court made pursuant to 40-4-121.

(2) Any case in which an order has been issued by a municipal court, justice’s court, or city court pursuant to 40-4-121 may be removed to district court upon filing of a notice of removal.

40-4-125. Registration of orders

Updated: 
October 25, 2024

(1) The clerk of court, justice of the peace, municipal court judge, or city court judge shall, within 24 hours of receiving proof of service of an order under 40-4-121, mail a copy of the order or any extension, modification, or termination of the order along with a copy of the proof of service to the appropriate law enforcement agencies designated in the order, which shall, within 24 hours after receipt of the order, enter the order into the database of the national crime information center of the United States department of justice and may enter the order into any existing state or other federal registry of protection orders, in accordance with applicable law.

(2) Law enforcement agencies shall establish procedures, using an existing system for warrant verification and the database of the national crime information center of the United States department of justice, to ensure that peace officers at the scene of an alleged violation of a protective order are informed of the existence and terms of the order.

Part 2. Support, Custody, Visitation, and Related Provisions

Updated: 
October 25, 2024

40-4-217. Notice of intent to move

Updated: 
October 25, 2024

(1) A parent who intends to change residence shall, unless precluded under 40-4-234, provide written notice to the other parent.

(2)(a) If a parent’s change in residence will significantly affect the child’s contact with the other parent, the parent who intends to change residence shall, pursuant to 40-4-219, file a motion for amendment of the residential schedule and a proposed revised residential schedule with the court that adopted the residential schedule or the court to which jurisdiction or venue over the child has been transferred. The motion must be served personally or by certified mail on the other parent and served pursuant to the Montana Rules of Civil Procedure on the parent’s attorney of record, if the parent has an attorney of record, not less than 30 days before the proposed change in residence.

(b) The notice pursuant to this subsection (2) is not sufficient unless it contains the following statement: “The relocation of the child may be permitted and the proposed revised residential schedule may be ordered by the court without further proceedings unless within 21 days you file a response and alternate revised residential schedule with the court and serve your response on the person proposing the move and all other persons entitled by the court order to residential time or visitation with the child.”

(3) The parent who receives service of a motion to amend the parenting plan pursuant to this section has 21 days after service of the motion to file a response. If the parent receiving notice objects to the proposed revised residential schedule, the responding parent shall include an alternate proposed revised residential schedule with the response. The response must be served as provided for by the Montana Rules of Civil Procedure on the parent proposing to change residence or on the parent’s attorney of record if the parent has an attorney of record.

(4) If a parent is properly served with a motion to amend the parenting plan pursuant to this section, failure to file a response within the 21-day period constitutes acceptance of the proposed revised residential schedule.

(5) A person entitled to file an objection to the proposed relocation of the child may file the objection regardless of whether the person has received proper notice.

40-4-203. Maintenance

Updated: 
October 25, 2024

(1) In a proceeding for dissolution of marriage or legal separation or a proceeding for maintenance following dissolution of the marriage by a court that lacked personal jurisdiction over the absent spouse, the court may grant a maintenance order for either spouse only if it finds that the spouse seeking maintenance:

(a) lacks sufficient property to provide for the spouse’s reasonable needs; and

(b) is unable to be self-supporting through appropriate employment or is the custodian of a child whose condition or circumstances make it appropriate that the custodian not be required to seek employment outside the home.

(2) The maintenance order must be in amounts and for periods of time that the court considers just, without regard to marital misconduct, and after considering all relevant facts, including:

(a) the financial resources of the party seeking maintenance, including marital property apportioned to that party, and the party’s ability to meet the party’s needs independently, including the extent to which a provision for support of a child living with the party includes a sum for that party as custodian;

(b) the time necessary to acquire sufficient education or training to enable the party seeking maintenance to find appropriate employment;

(c) the standard of living established during the marriage;

(d) the duration of the marriage;

(e) the age and the physical and emotional condition of the spouse seeking maintenance; and

(f) the ability of the spouse from whom maintenance is sought to meet the spouse’s own needs while meeting those of the spouse seeking maintenance.

(3) The court shall seal any qualified domestic relations order, as defined in section 414(p) of the Internal Revenue Code, 26 U.S.C. 414(p), that is issued under this part except for access by the pension plan administrator of the plan for which benefits are being distributed by the order, the child support enforcement division, the parties, and each party’s counsel of record.

40-4-212. Best interest of child

Updated: 
October 25, 2024

(1) The court shall determine the parenting plan in accordance with the best interest of the child. The court shall consider all relevant parenting factors, which may include but are not limited to:

(a) the wishes of the child’s parent or parents;

(b) the wishes of the child;

(c) the interaction and interrelationship of the child with the child’s parent or parents and siblings and with any other person who significantly affects the child’s best interest;

(d) the child’s adjustment to home, school, and community;

(e) the mental and physical health of all individuals involved;

(f) physical abuse or threat of physical abuse by one parent against the other parent or the child;

(g) chemical dependency, as defined in 53-24-103, or chemical abuse on the part of either parent;

(h) continuity and stability of care;

(i) developmental needs of the child;

(j) whether a parent has knowingly failed to pay birth-related costs that the parent is able to pay, which is considered to be not in the child’s best interests;

(k) whether a parent has knowingly failed to financially support a child that the parent is able to support, which is considered to be not in the child’s best interests;

(l) whether the child has frequent and continuing contact with both parents, which is considered to be in the child’s best interests unless the court determines, after a hearing, that contact with a parent would be detrimental to the child’s best interests. In making that determination, the court shall consider evidence of physical abuse or threat of physical abuse by one parent against the other parent or the child, including but not limited to whether a parent or other person residing in that parent’s household has been convicted of any of the crimes enumerated in 40-4-219(8)(b).

(m) adverse effects on the child resulting from continuous and vexatious parenting plan amendment actions.

(2) When determining the best interest of the child of a parent in military service, the court shall consider all relevant parenting factors provided in subsection (1) and may not determine the best interest of the child based only upon the parent’s military service.

(3) A de facto parenting arrangement, in the absence of a prior parenting decree, does not require the child’s parent or parents to prove the factors set forth in 40-4-219.

(4) The following are rebuttable presumptions and apply unless contrary to the best interest of the child:

(a) A parenting plan action brought by a parent within 6 months after a child support action against that parent is vexatious.

(b) A motion to amend a final parenting plan pursuant to 40-4-219 is vexatious if a parent seeks to amend a final parenting plan without making a good faith effort to comply with the provisions of the parenting plan or with dispute resolution provisions of the final parenting plan.

40-4-219. Amendment of parenting plan--mediation

Updated: 
October 25, 2024

(1) The court may in its discretion amend a prior parenting plan if it finds, upon the basis of facts that have arisen since the prior plan or that were unknown to the court at the time of entry of the prior plan, that a change has occurred in the circumstances of the child and that the amendment is necessary to serve the best interest of the child.

(a) In determining how a proposed change will affect the child, the court shall consider the potential impact of the change on the criteria in 40-4-212 and whether:

(i) the parents agree to the amendment;

(ii) the child has been integrated into the family of the petitioner with consent of the parents;

(iii) the child is 14 years of age or older and desires the amendment; or

(iv) one parent has willfully and consistently:

(A) refused to allow the child to have any contact with the other parent; or

(B) attempted to frustrate or deny contact with the child by the other parent.

(b) If one parent has changed or intends to change the child’s residence in a manner that significantly affects the child’s contact with the other parent, the court shall consider, in addition to all the criteria in 40-4-212 and subsection (1)(a):

(i) the feasibility of preserving the relationship between the nonrelocating parent and the child through suitable visitation arrangements, considering the logistics and financial circumstances of the parties;

(ii) the reasons of each parent for seeking or opposing the change of residence;

(iii) whether the parent seeking to change the child’s residence has demonstrated a willingness to promote the relationship between the child and the nonrelocating parent; and

(iv) whether reasonable alternatives to the proposed change of residence are available to the parent seeking to relocate.

(2) A court may modify a de facto parenting arrangement in accordance with the factors set forth in 40-4-212.

(3) The court shall presume a parent is not acting in the child’s best interest if the parent does any of the acts specified in subsection (1)(a)(iv) or (8).

(4) The court may amend the prior parenting plan based on subsection (1)(b) to provide a new residential schedule for parental contact with the child and to apportion transportation costs between the parents.

(5) Attorney fees and costs must be assessed against a party seeking frivolous or repeated amendment if the court finds that the amendment action is vexatious and constitutes harassment.

(6) A parenting plan may be amended pursuant to 40-4-221 upon the death of one parent.

(7) As used in this section, “prior parenting plan” means a parenting determination contained in a judicial decree or order made in a parenting proceeding. In proceedings for amendment under this section, a proposed amended parenting plan must be filed and served with the motion for amendment and with the response to the motion for amendment. Preference must be given to carrying out the parenting plan.

(8)(a) If a parent or other person residing in that parent’s household has been convicted of any of the crimes listed in subsection (8)(b), the other parent or any other person who has been granted rights to the child pursuant to court order may file an objection to the current parenting order with the court. The parent or other person having rights to the child pursuant to court order shall give notice to the other parent of the objection as provided by the Montana Rules of Civil Procedure, and the other parent has 21 days from the notice to respond. If the parent who receives notice of objection fails to respond within 21 days, the parenting rights of that parent are suspended until further order of the court. If that parent responds and objects, a hearing must be held within 30 days of the response.

(b) This subsection (8) applies to the following crimes:

(i) deliberate homicide, as described in 45-5-102;

(ii) mitigated deliberate homicide, as described in 45-5-103;

(iii) sexual assault, as described in 45-5-502;

(iv) sexual intercourse without consent, as described in 45-5-503;

(v) deviate sexual conduct with an animal or dead human body, as described in 45-2-101 and prohibited under 45-8-218;

(vi) incest, as described in 45-5-507;

(vii) child sex trafficking, as described in 45-5-711;

(viii) endangering the welfare of children, as described in 45-5-622;

(ix) partner or family member assault of the type described in 45-5-206(1)(a);

(x) sexual abuse of children, as described in 45-5-625; and

(xi) strangulation of a partner or family member, as described in 45-5-215.

(9) Except in cases of physical, sexual, or emotional abuse or threat of physical, sexual, or emotional abuse by one parent against the other parent or the child or when a parent has been convicted of a crime enumerated in subsection (8)(b), the court may, in its discretion, order the parties to participate in a dispute resolution process to assist in resolving any conflicts between the parties regarding amendment of the parenting plan. The dispute resolution process may include counseling or mediation by a specified person or agency, and court action.

(10)(a) Except as provided in subsection (10)(b), a court-ordered or de facto modification of a parenting plan based in whole or in part on military service orders of a parent is temporary and reverts to the previous parenting plan at the end of the military service. If a motion for an amendment of a parenting plan is filed after a parent returns from military service, the court may not consider a parent’s absence due to that military service in its determination of the best interest of the child.

(b) A parent who has performed or is performing military service, as defined in 10-1-1003, may consent to a temporary or permanent modification of a parenting plan:

(i) for the duration of the military service; or

(ii) that continues past the end of the military service.

Chapter 7. Uniform Child Custody Jurisdiction and Enforcement Act

Updated: 
October 25, 2024

Part 3. Enforcement

Updated: 
October 25, 2024

40-7-305. Registration of child custody determination

Updated: 
October 25, 2024

(1) A child custody determination issued by a court of another state may be registered in this state, with or without a simultaneous request for enforcement, by sending to district court in this state:

(a) a letter or other document requesting registration;

(b) two copies, including one certified copy, of the determination sought to be registered and a statement under penalty of perjury that to the best of the knowledge and belief of the person seeking registration, the order has not been modified; and

(c) the name and address of the person seeking registration and any parent or person acting as a parent who has been awarded custody or visitation in the child custody determination sought to be registered.

(2) On receipt of the documents required by subsection (1), the registering court shall:

(a) cause the determination to be filed as a foreign judgment, together with one copy of any accompanying documents and information, regardless of their form; and

(b) serve notice upon the persons named pursuant to subsection (1)(c) and provide them with an opportunity to contest the registration in accordance with this section.

(3) The notice required by subsection (2)(b) must state that:

(a) a registered determination is enforceable as of the date of the registration in the same manner as a determination issued by a court of this state;

(b) a hearing to contest the validity of the registered determination must be requested within 20 days after service of notice; and

(c) failure to contest the registration will result in confirmation of the child custody determination and preclude further contest of that determination with respect to any matter that could have been asserted.

(4) A person seeking to contest the validity of a registered order shall request a hearing within 20 days after service of the notice. At that hearing, the court shall confirm the registered order unless the person contesting registration establishes that:

(a) the issuing court did not have jurisdiction under 40-7-105, 40-7-107 through 40-7-110, 40-7-112, and part 2 of this chapter;

(b) the child custody determination sought to be registered has been vacated, stayed, or modified by a court having jurisdiction to do so under 40-7-105, 40-7-107 through 40-7-110, 40-7-112, and part 2 of this chapter; or

(c) the person contesting registration was entitled to notice, but notice was not given in accordance with the standards of 40-7-106, in the proceedings before the court that issued the order for which registration is sought.

(5) If a timely request for a hearing to contest the validity of the registration is not made, the registration is confirmed as a matter of law and the person requesting registration and all persons served must be notified of the confirmation.

(6) Confirmation of a registered order, whether by operation of law or after notice and hearing, precludes further contest of the order with respect to any matter that could have been asserted at the time of registration.

40-7-306. Enforcement of registered determination

Updated: 
October 25, 2024

(1) A court of this state may grant any relief normally available under the law of this state to enforce a registered child custody determination made by a court of another state.

(2) A court of this state shall recognize and enforce, but may not modify, except in accordance with 40-7-105, 40-7-107 through 40-7-110, 40-7-112, and part 2 of this chapter, a registered child custody determination of a court of another state.

40-7-307. Simultaneous proceedings

Updated: 
October 25, 2024

If a proceeding for enforcement under this part is commenced in a court of this state and the court determines that a proceeding to modify the determination is commenced in a court of another state having jurisdiction to modify the determination under 40-7-105, 40-7-107 through 40-7-110, 40-7-112, and part 2 of this chapter, the enforcing court shall immediately communicate with the modifying court. The proceeding for enforcement continues unless the enforcing court, after consultation with the modifying court, stays or dismisses the proceeding.

40-7-308. Expedited enforcement of child custody determination

Updated: 
October 25, 2024

(1) A petition under this part must be verified. Certified copies of all orders sought to be enforced and of any order confirming registration must be attached to the petition. A copy of a certified copy of an order may be attached instead of the original.

(2) A petition for enforcement of a child custody determination must state:

(a) whether the court that issued the determination identified the jurisdictional basis that it relied upon in exercising jurisdiction and, if so, what the basis was;

(b) whether the determination for which enforcement is sought has been vacated, stayed, or modified by a court whose decision must be enforced under this chapter or federal law and, if so, identify the court, the case number of the proceeding, and the action taken;

(c) whether any proceeding has been commenced that could affect the current proceeding, including proceedings relating to domestic violence, protective orders, termination of parental rights, and adoptions, and if so, identify the court, the case number, and the nature of the proceeding;

(d) the present physical address of the child and the respondent, if known;

(e) whether relief in addition to the immediate physical custody of the child and attorney fees is sought, including a request for assistance from law enforcement officials and, if so, the relief sought; and

(f) if the child custody determination has been registered and confirmed under 40-7-305, the date and place of registration.

(3) Upon the filing of a petition, the court shall issue an order directing the respondent to appear in person with or without the child at a hearing and may enter any order necessary to ensure the safety of the parties and the child. The hearing must be held on the next judicial day after service of the order unless that date is impossible. In that event, the court shall hold the hearing on the first judicial day possible. The court may extend the date of hearing at the request of the petitioner.

(4) The order must state the time and place of the hearing and must advise the respondent that at the hearing, the court will order the delivery of the child and the payment of fees, costs, and expenses under 40-7-312 and may set an additional hearing to determine whether further relief is appropriate, unless the respondent appears and establishes that:

(a) the child custody determination has not been registered and confirmed under 40-7-305 and that:

(i) the issuing court did not have jurisdiction under 40-7-105, 40-7-107 through 40-7-110, 40-7-112, and part 2 of this chapter;

(ii) the child custody determination for which enforcement is sought has been vacated, stayed, or modified by a court having jurisdiction to do so under 40-7-105, 40-7-107 through 40-7-110, 40-7-112, and part 2 of this chapter or federal law; or

(iii) the respondent was entitled to notice, but notice was not given in accordance with the standards of 40-7-106, in the proceedings before the court that issued the order for which enforcement is sought; or

(b) the child custody determination for which enforcement is sought was registered and confirmed under 40-7-305, but has been vacated, stayed, or modified by a court of a state having jurisdiction to do so under 40-7-105, 40-7-107 through 40-7-110, 40-7-112, and part 2 of this chapter or federal law.

Chapter 15. Partner and Family Member Assault, Sexual Assault, and Stalking -- Safety and Protection of Victims

Updated: 
October 25, 2024

Part 1. General Provisions

Updated: 
October 25, 2024

40-15-101. Purpose

Updated: 
October 25, 2024

The purpose of this chapter is to promote the safety and protection of all victims of partner and family member assault, victims of sexual assault, and victims of stalking.

40-15-102. Eligibility for order of protection

Updated: 
October 25, 2024

(1) A person may file a petition for an order of protection if:

(a) the petitioner is in reasonable apprehension of bodily injury by the petitioner’s partner or family member as defined in 45-5-206; or

(b) the petitioner is a victim of one of the following offenses committed by a partner or family member:

(i) assault as defined in 45-5-201;

(ii) aggravated assault as defined in 45-5-202;

(iii) intimidation as defined in 45-5-203;

(iv) partner or family member assault as defined in 45-5-206;

(v) criminal endangerment as defined in 45-5-207;

(vi) negligent endangerment as defined in 45-5-208;

(vii) assault on a minor as defined in 45-5-212;

(viii) assault with a weapon as defined in 45-5-213;

(ix) strangulation of a partner or family member as defined in 45-5-215;

(x) unlawful restraint as defined in 45-5-301;

(xi) kidnapping as defined in 45-5-302;

(xii) aggravated kidnapping as defined in 45-5-303; or

(xiii) arson as defined in 45-6-103.

(2) The following individuals are eligible to file a petition for an order of protection against the offender regardless of the individual’s relationship to the offender:

(a) a victim of assault as defined in 45-5-201, aggravated assault as defined in 45-5-202, assault on a minor as defined in 45-5-212, stalking as defined in 45-5-220, incest as defined in 45-5-507, sexual assault as defined in 45-5-502, sexual intercourse without consent as defined in 45-5-503, sexual abuse of children as defined in 45-5-625, or human trafficking as defined in 45-5-701; or

(b) a partner or family member of a victim of deliberate homicide as defined in 45-5-102 or mitigated deliberate homicide as defined in 45-5-103.

(3) A parent, guardian ad litem, or other representative of the petitioner may file a petition for an order of protection on behalf of a minor petitioner against the petitioner’s abuser. At its discretion, a court may appoint a guardian ad litem for a minor petitioner.

(4) The following persons may file a petition for an order of protection on behalf of an adult:

(a) a guardian appointed pursuant to Title 72, chapter 5, part 3, on behalf of an incapacitated person;

(b) a conservator appointed pursuant to Title 72, chapter 5, part 4, on behalf of a protected person; or

(c) an agent on behalf of an incapacitated principal. For the purposes of this subsection (4)(c), “incapacitated” has the same meaning as “incapacitated person” provided in 72-5-101.

(5) A guardian must be appointed for a minor respondent when required by Rule 17(c), Montana Rules of Civil Procedure, or by 25-31-602. An order of protection is effective against a respondent regardless of the respondent’s age.

(6) A petitioner is eligible for an order of protection whether or not:

(a) the petitioner reports the abuse to law enforcement;

(b) charges are filed; or

(c) the petitioner participates in a criminal prosecution.(7) If a petitioner is otherwise entitled to an order of protection, the length of time between the abusive incident and the petitioner’s application for an order of protection is irrelevant.

40-15-103. Notice of rights when partner or family member assault is suspected.

Updated: 
October 25, 2024

(1) Whenever a patient seeks health care and the health care provider suspects that partner or family member assault has occurred, the health care provider, outside the presence of the suspected offender, may advise the suspected victim of the availability of a shelter or other services in the community and give the suspected victim immediate notice of any legal rights and remedies available. The notice must include furnishing the suspected victim with a copy of the following statement:

“The city or county attorney’s office can file criminal charges against the offender if the offender committed the offense of partner or family member assault.

In addition to the criminal charges filed by the state of Montana, you are entitled to the civil remedies listed below.

You may go to court and file a petition requesting any of the following orders for relief:

(1) an order of protection that prohibits the offender from threatening to hurt you or hurting you;

(2) an order of protection that directs the offender to leave your home and prohibits the offender from having any contact with you;

(3) an order of protection that prevents the offender from transferring any property except in the usual course of business;

(4) an order of protection that prohibits the offender from being within 1,500 feet or other appropriate distance of you, any named family member, and your worksite or other specified place;

(5) an order of protection that gives you possession of necessary personal property;

(6) an order of protection that prohibits the offender from possessing or using the firearm used in the assault.

If you file a petition in district court, the district court may order all of the above and may award custody of your minor children to you or the other parent. The district court may order visitation of your children between the parents. The district court may order the offender to pay support payments to you if the offender has a legal obligation to pay you support payments.

The forms that you need to obtain an order of protection are at _______________. You may call ____________ at _______________ for additional information about an order of protection.

You may file a petition in district court at _____________.

You may be eligible for restitution payments from the offender (the offender would repay you for costs that you have had to pay as a result of the assault) or for crime victims compensation payments (a fund administered by the state of Montana for innocent victims of crime). You may call ____________ at _____________ for additional information about restitution or crime victims compensation.

The following agencies may be able to give you additional information or emergency help. (List telephone numbers and addresses of agencies other than shelters with secret locations and a brief summary of services that are available.)”

(2) Partner or family member assault may be suspected by health care workers in circumstances in which a patient repeatedly seeks health care for trauma type injuries or a patient gives an explanation for injuries that is not consistent with the injuries that are observed.

(3) For purposes of this section, “health care provider” has the meaning provided in 50-16-504.

40-15-110. Partner and family member assault intervention and treatment fund account

Updated: 
October 25, 2024

(1) There is a partner and family member assault intervention and treatment fund account in the state special revenue fund in the state treasury. The money in the account is allocated to the board of crime control to fund services to victims of partner or family member assault, as provided in subsections (2) and (3).

(2) The board shall distribute the money in the account, as provided in subsection (3), to agencies that provide direct services to victims of partner or family member assault, including but not limited to shelters, crisis lines, safe homes, and victim’s counseling providers. A service provider is eligible to receive money under this section for services provided to a victim of partner or family member assault, whether or not the victim seeks or receives services within the criminal justice system.

(3) A service provider that provides direct services to victims of partner or family member assault shall apply to the board for distribution of money under this section. The board shall evaluate a provider’s eligibility to receive money under this section based on available money, the needs of the provider, whether the provider includes programs focused on prevention of partner and family member assault, the quality of services provided by the provider, the need for services in the community, and the need for improved or continuing services in the community.

Part 2. Order of Protection

Updated: 
October 25, 2024

40-15-201. Temporary order of protection

Updated: 
October 25, 2024

(1) A petitioner may seek a temporary order of protection from a court listed in 40-15-301. The petitioner shall file a sworn petition that states that the petitioner is in reasonable apprehension of bodily injury or is a victim of one of the offenses listed in 40-15-102, has a relationship to the respondent if required by 40-15-102, and is in danger of harm if the court does not issue a temporary order of protection immediately.

(2) Upon a review of the petition and a finding that the petitioner is in danger of harm if the court does not act immediately, the court shall issue a temporary order of protection that grants the petitioner appropriate relief. The temporary order of protection may include any or all of the following orders:

(a) prohibiting the respondent from threatening to commit or committing acts of violence against the petitioner and any designated family member;

(b) prohibiting the respondent from harassing, annoying, disturbing the peace of, telephoning, contacting, or otherwise communicating, directly or indirectly, with the petitioner, any named family member, any other victim of this offense, or a witness to the offense;

(c) prohibiting the respondent from removing a child from the jurisdiction of the court;

(d) directing the respondent to stay 1,500 feet or other appropriate distance away from the petitioner, the petitioner’s residence, the school or place of employment of the petitioner, or any specified place frequented by the petitioner and by any other designated family or household member;

(e) removing and excluding the respondent from the residence of the petitioner, regardless of ownership of the residence;

(f) prohibiting the respondent from possessing or using the firearm used in the assault;

(g) prohibiting the respondent from transferring, encumbering, concealing, or otherwise disposing of any property except in the usual course of business or for the necessities of life and, if so restrained, requiring the respondent to notify the petitioner, through the court, of any proposed extraordinary expenditures made after the order is issued;

(h) directing the transfer of possession and use of the residence, an automobile, and other essential personal property, regardless of ownership of the residence, automobile, or essential personal property, and directing an appropriate law enforcement officer to accompany the petitioner to the residence to ensure that the petitioner safely obtains possession of the residence, automobile, or other essential personal property or to supervise the petitioner’s or respondent’s removal of essential personal property;

(i) directing the respondent to complete violence counseling, which may include alcohol or chemical dependency counseling or treatment, if appropriate;

(j) directing other relief considered necessary to provide for the safety and welfare of the petitioner or other designated family member.

(3) If the petitioner has fled the parties’ residence, notice of the petitioner’s new residence must be withheld, except by order of the court for good cause shown.

(4) The court may, without requiring prior notice to the respondent, issue an immediate temporary order of protection for up to 20 days if the court finds, on the basis of the petitioner’s sworn petition or other evidence, that harm may result to the petitioner if an order is not issued before the 20-day period for responding has elapsed.

(5) A temporary order of protection issued pursuant to this section must conspicuously bear the following: “Violation of this order is a criminal offense under 45-5-626 and may also be a criminal offense under 45-5-220.”

40-15-202. Order of protection -- hearing -- evidence

Updated: 
October 25, 2024

(1) A hearing must be conducted within 20 days from the date that the court issues a temporary order of protection. The hearing date may be continued at the request of either party for good cause or by the court. If the hearing date is continued, the temporary order of protection must remain in effect until the court conducts a hearing. At the hearing, the court shall determine whether good cause exists for the temporary order of protection to be continued, amended, or made permanent.

(2) The respondent may request an emergency hearing before the end of the 20-day period by filing an affidavit that demonstrates that the respondent has an urgent need for the emergency hearing. An emergency hearing must be set within 3 working days of the filing of the affidavit.

(3) The order of protection may not be made mutually effective by the court. The respondent may obtain an order of protection from the petitioner only by filing an application for an order of protection and following the procedure described in this chapter.

(4)(a) Except as provided in subsection (4)(b), evidence concerning a victim’s sexual conduct is not admissible in a hearing under this section.

(b) Evidence of a victim’s past sexual conduct with the offender or evidence of specific instances of the victim’s sexual activity to show the origin of semen, pregnancy, or disease may be admitted in a hearing under this section only if that sexual conduct is at issue in the hearing.

(5) If a respondent proposes to offer evidence subject to subsection (4)(b), the trial judge shall order a separate hearing to determine whether the proposed evidence is admissible under subsection (4)(b).

40-15-203. Attorney general to provide forms

Updated: 
October 25, 2024

The attorney general shall prepare uniform sample instructions, petition forms, and order forms for temporary orders of protection and for orders of protection. The attorney general shall distribute samples of the instructions, petitions, and forms to the clerk of the district court in each county and to justices’, municipal, and city courts. The clerk of the district court, justices of the peace, and municipal and city court judges shall make forms available to the public at no charge.

40-15-204. Written orders of protection

Updated: 
October 25, 2024

Written orders of protection. (1) The court may, on the basis of the respondent’s history of violence, the severity of the offense at issue, and the evidence presented at the hearing, determine that to avoid further injury or harm, the petitioner needs permanent protection. The court may order that the order of protection remain in effect permanently.

(2) In a dissolution proceeding, the district court may, upon request, issue either an order of protection for an appropriate period of time or a permanent order of protection.

(3) An order of protection may include all of the relief listed in 40-15-201, when appropriate.

(4) An order of protection may include restraining the respondent from any other named family member who is a minor. If this restriction is included, the respondent must be restrained from having contact with the minor for an appropriate time period as directed by the court or permanently if the court finds that the minor was a victim of abuse, a witness to abuse, or endangered by the environment of abuse.

(5) An order of protection issued under this section may continue for an appropriate time period as directed by the court or be made permanent under subsection (1), (2), or
(4). The order may be terminated upon the petitioner’s request that the order be dismissed.

(6) An order of protection must include a section that indicates whether there are any other civil or criminal actions pending involving the parties, a brief description of the action, and the court in which the action is filed.

(7) An amendment to a temporary order of protection or to an order of protection is effective only after it has been served in writing on the opposing party.

(8) There is no cost to file a petition for an order of protection or for service of an order of protection whether served inside or outside the jurisdiction of the court issuing the order.

(9) Any temporary order of protection or order of protection must conspicuously bear the following:

“Violation of this order is a criminal offense under 45-5-220 or 45-5-626 and may carry penalties of up to $10,000 in fines and up to a 5-year jail sentence.
This order is issued by the court, and the respondent is forbidden to do any act listed in the order, even if invited by the petitioner or another person. This order may be amended only by further order of this court or another court that assumes jurisdiction over this matter.”

Part 3. Jurisdiction, Venue, and Appeal--Registration of Orders

Updated: 
October 25, 2024

40-15-301. Jurisdiction and venue

Updated: 
October 25, 2024

(1) District courts, justices’ courts, municipal courts, and city courts have concurrent jurisdiction to hear and issue orders under 40-15-201.

(2) When a dissolution of marriage or parenting action involving the parties is pending in district court, a person may file a petition for an order of protection in a justice’s, municipal, or city court only if the district court judge assigned to that case is unavailable or if the petitioner, to escape further abuse, left the county where the abuse occurred. The petitioner shall provide a copy of relevant district court documents to the justice’s, municipal, or city court, along with the petition. The justice of the peace, municipal court judge, or city court judge shall immediately certify the pleadings to the original district court after signing an order of protection under this subsection. The district court shall conduct the hearing unless both parties and both courts agree that the hearing may be conducted in the court of limited jurisdiction. If the district court is unable to conduct a hearing within 20 days of receipt of the certified pleadings, it shall conduct a hearing within 45 days of the receipt of the pleadings, unless the hearing is continued at the request of either party for good cause or by the court. If the hearing is continued, the order of protection must remain in effect until the court conducts the hearing.

(3) If one of the parties to an order of protection files for dissolution of marriage or files a parenting action after the order of protection is filed but before the hearing is conducted, the hearing must be conducted in the court in which the order of protection was filed. Either party may appeal or remove the matter to the district court prior to or after the hearing. If the district court is unable to conduct a hearing within 20 days of receipt of the certified pleadings, the district court shall conduct a hearing within 45 days of receipt of the pleadings. The hearing may be continued at the request of either party for good cause or by the court. If the hearing is continued, the order of protection must remain in effect until the court conducts the hearing.

(4) An action brought under this chapter may be filed in the county where the petitioner currently or temporarily resides, the county where the respondent resides, or the county where the abuse occurred. There is no minimum length of residency required to file a petition under this chapter.

(5) The right to petition for relief may not be denied because the petitioner has vacated the residence or household to avoid abuse.

(6) An order of protection issued under this section is effective throughout the state. Courts and law enforcement officials shall give full faith and credit to all orders of protection issued within the state.

(7) A certified copy of an order of protection from another state, along with proof of service, may be filed in a Montana court with jurisdiction over orders of protection in the county where the petitioner resides. If properly filed in Montana, an order of protection issued in another state must be enforced in the same manner as an order of protection issued in Montana.

40-15-302. Appeal to district court -- order to remain in effect

Updated: 
October 25, 2024

(1) An order issued by a justice’s court, municipal court, or city court pursuant to 40-15-201 is immediately reviewable by the district judge upon the filing of a notice of appeal. The district judge may affirm, dissolve, or modify an order of a justice’s court, municipal court, or city court made pursuant to 40-15-201 or 40-15-204.

(2) A case in which an order has been issued by a justice’s court, municipal court, or city court pursuant to 40-15-201 or 40-15-204 may be removed to district court upon filing of a notice of removal.

(3) If a temporary order of protection or an order of protection issued by a court of limited jurisdiction is appealed or removed to an appellate court, the order continues in full force and effect unless modified by the appellate court.

40-15-303. Registration of orders

Updated: 
October 25, 2024

(1) The clerk of court, justice of the peace, municipal court judge, or city court judge shall, within 24 hours of receiving proof of service of an order under 40-15-201, 40-15-204, or 40-15-301, mail a copy of the order or any extension, modification, or termination of the order, along with a copy of the proof of service, to the appropriate law enforcement agencies designated in the order, which shall, within 24 hours after receipt of the order, enter the order into the database of the national crime information center of the United States department of justice and may enter the order into any existing state or other federal registry of protection orders, in accordance with applicable law.

(2) Law enforcement agencies shall establish procedures, using an existing system for warrant verification and the database of the national crime information center of the United States department of justice, to ensure that peace officers at the scene of an alleged violation of an order of protection are informed of the existence and terms of the order.

Part 4. Uniform Interstate Enforcement of Domestic Violence Protection Orders

Updated: 
October 25, 2024

40-15-401. Short title

Updated: 
October 25, 2024

This part may be cited as the “Uniform Interstate Enforcement of Domestic Violence Protection Orders Act”.

40-15-402. Definitions

Updated: 
October 25, 2024

(1) “Foreign protection order” means a protection order issued by a court of another state.

(2) “Issuing state” means the state whose court issues a protection order.

(3) “Mutual foreign protection order” means a foreign protection order that includes provisions in favor of both the protected individual seeking enforcement of the order and the respondent.

(4) “Protected individual” means an individual protected by a protection order.

(5) “Protection order” means an injunction or other order issued by a court under the domestic violence, family violence, sexual assault, or stalking laws of the issuing state to prevent an individual from engaging in violent or threatening acts against, harassment of, contact or communication with, or physical proximity to another individual.

(6) “Respondent” means the individual against whom enforcement of a protection order is sought.

(7) “State” means a state of the United States, the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico, the United States Virgin Islands, or any territory or insular possession subject to the jurisdiction of the United States. The term includes an Indian tribe or band that has jurisdiction to issue protection orders.

40-15-403. Judicial enforcement of order

Updated: 
October 25, 2024

(1) A person authorized by the law of this state to seek enforcement of a protection order may seek enforcement of a valid foreign protection order in a court of this state. The court shall enforce the terms of the order, including terms that provide relief that a court of this state would lack power to provide but for this section. The court shall enforce the order, whether the order was obtained by independent action or in another proceeding, if it is an order issued in response to a complaint, petition, or motion filed by or on behalf of an individual seeking protection. In a proceeding to enforce a foreign protection order, the court shall follow the procedures of this state for the enforcement of protection orders.

(2) A court of this state may not enforce a foreign protection order issued by a court of a state that does not recognize the standing of a protected individual to seek enforcement of the order.

(3) A court of this state shall enforce the provisions of a valid foreign protection order that govern custody and visitation if the order was issued in accordance with the jurisdictional requirements governing the issuance of custody and visitation orders in the issuing state.

(4) A court of this state may not enforce under this part a provision of a foreign protection order with respect to support.

(5) A foreign protection order is valid if it:

(a) identifies the protected individual and the respondent;

(b) is currently in effect;

(c) was issued by a court that had jurisdiction over the parties and subject matter under the law of the issuing state; and

(d) was issued after the respondent was given reasonable notice and had an opportunity to be heard before the court issued the order or, in the case of an order ex parte, the respondent was given notice and had an opportunity to be heard before the order was issued or had an opportunity to be heard within a reasonable time after the order was issued, consistent with the rights of the respondent to due process.

(6) A foreign protection order valid on its face is prima facie evidence of its validity.

(7) Absence of any of the criteria for validity of a foreign protection order is an affirmative defense in an action seeking enforcement of the order.

(8) A court of this state may enforce provisions of a mutual foreign protection order that favor a respondent only if:

(a) the respondent filed a written pleading seeking a protection order from the court of the issuing state; and

(b) the court of the issuing state made specific findings in favor of the respondent.

40-15-404. Nonjudicial enforcement of order

Updated: 
October 25, 2024

(1) A law enforcement officer of this state, upon determining that there is probable cause to believe that a valid foreign protection order exists and that the order has been violated, shall enforce the order as if it were the order of a court of this state. Presentation of a protection order that identifies both the protected individual and the respondent and, on its face, is currently in effect constitutes probable cause to believe that a valid foreign protection order exists. For the purposes of this section, the protection order may be inscribed on a tangible medium or may have been stored in an electronic or other medium if it is retrievable in perceivable form. Presentation of a certified copy of a protection order is not required for enforcement.

(2) If a foreign protection order is not presented, a law enforcement officer of this state may consider other information in determining whether there is probable cause to believe that a valid foreign protection order exists.

(3) If a law enforcement officer of this state determines that an otherwise valid foreign protection order cannot be enforced because the respondent has not been notified or served with the order, the officer shall inform the respondent of the order, make a reasonable effort to serve the order upon the respondent, and allow the respondent a reasonable opportunity to comply with the order before enforcing the order.

(4) Registration or filing of an order in this state is not required for the enforcement of a valid foreign protection order pursuant to this part.

40-15-405. Registration of order

Updated: 
October 25, 2024

(1) Any individual may register a foreign protection order in this state. To register a foreign protection order, an individual shall:

(a) present a certified copy of the order to the department of justice; or

(b) present a certified copy of the order to a clerk of any court or to any local law enforcement agency and request that the order be registered with the department of justice.

(2) Upon receipt of a foreign protection order, the department of justice shall register the order in accordance with this section. After the order is registered, the department of justice shall furnish to the individual registering the order a certified copy of the registered order.

(3) The department of justice shall register an order upon presentation of a copy of a protection order that has been certified by the issuing state. A registered foreign protection order that is inaccurate or is not currently in effect must be corrected or removed from the registry in accordance with the law of this state.

(4) An individual registering a foreign protection order shall file an affidavit by the protected individual stating that, to the best of the protected individual’s knowledge, the order is currently in effect.

(5) A foreign protection order registered under this part must be entered into the database of the national crime information center of the United States department of justice and may be entered in any existing state or other federal registry of protection orders, in accordance with applicable law.

(6) A fee may not be charged for the registration of a foreign protection order.

40-15-406. Immunity

Updated: 
October 25, 2024

This state or a local governmental agency or a law enforcement officer, prosecuting attorney, clerk of court, or any state or local governmental official acting in an official capacity is immune from civil liability for an act or omission arising out of the registration or enforcement of a foreign protection order or the detention or arrest of an alleged violator of a foreign protection order if the act or omission was done in good faith in an effort to comply with this part.

40-15-407. Other remedies

Updated: 
October 25, 2024

A protected individual who pursues remedies under this part is not precluded from pursuing other legal or equitable remedies against the respondent.

40-15-408. Uniformity of application and construction

Updated: 
October 25, 2024

In applying and construing this part, consideration must be given to the need to promote uniformity of the law with respect to its subject matter among states that enact it.

Title 41. Minors

Updated: 
October 25, 2024

Chapter 1. Rights and Obligations of Minors

Updated: 
October 25, 2024

Part 1. Minority

Updated: 
October 25, 2024

41-1-101. Minors and adults defined

Updated: 
October 25, 2024

(1) Minors are:
(a) males under 18 years of age;
(b) females under 18 years of age.
(2) All other persons are adults.

Chapter 3. Child Abuse and Neglect

Updated: 
October 25, 2024

Part 4. Abuse or Neglect Proceedings

Updated: 
October 25, 2024

41-3-422. Abuse and neglect petitions--burden of proof

Updated: 
October 25, 2024

(1)(a) Proceedings under this chapter must be initiated by the filing of a petition. A petition may request the following relief:

(i) immediate protection and emergency protective services, as provided in 41-3-427;

(ii) temporary investigative authority, as provided in 41-3-433;

(iii) temporary legal custody, as provided in 41-3-442;

(iv) long-term custody, as provided in 41-3-445;

(v) termination of the parent-child legal relationship, as provided in 41-3-607;

(vi) appointment of a guardian pursuant to 41-3-444;

(vii) a determination that preservation or reunification services need not be provided; or

(viii) any combination of the provisions of subsections (1)(a)(i) through (1)(a)(vii) or any other relief that may be required for the best interests of the child.

(b) The petition may be modified for different relief at any time within the discretion of the court.

(c) A petition for temporary legal custody may be the initial petition filed in a case.

(d) A petition for the termination of the parent-child legal relationship may be the initial petition filed in a case if a request for a determination that preservation or reunification services need not be provided is made in the petition.

(2) The county attorney, attorney general, or an attorney hired by the county shall file all petitions under this chapter. A petition filed by the county attorney, attorney general, or an attorney hired by the county must be accompanied by:

(a) an affidavit by the department alleging that the child appears to have been abused or neglected and stating the basis for the petition; and

(b) a separate notice to the court stating any statutory time deadline for a hearing.

(3) Abuse and neglect petitions must be given highest preference by the court in setting hearing dates.

(4) An abuse and neglect petition is a civil action brought in the name of the state of Montana. The Montana Rules of Civil Procedure and the Montana Rules of Evidence apply except as modified in this chapter. Proceedings under a petition are not a bar to criminal prosecution.

(5)(a) Except as provided in subsection (5)(b), the person filing the abuse and neglect petition has the burden of presenting evidence required to justify the relief requested and establishing:

(i) probable cause for the issuance of an order for immediate protection and emergency protective services or an order for temporary investigative authority;

(ii) a preponderance of the evidence for an order of adjudication or temporary legal custody;

(iii) a preponderance of the evidence for an order of long-term custody; or

(iv) clear and convincing evidence for an order terminating the parent-child legal relationship.

(b) If a proceeding under this chapter involves an Indian child, as defined in the federal Indian Child Welfare Act, 25 U.S.C. 1901, et seq., or 41-3-1303, the standards of proof required for legal relief under the federal Indian Child Welfare Act and the Montana Indian Child Welfare Act provided for in Title 41, chapter 3, part 13, apply.

(6)(a) Except as provided in the federal Indian Child Welfare Act and the Montana Indian Child Welfare Act, if applicable, the parents or parent, guardian, or other person or agency having legal custody of the child named in the petition, if residing in the state, must be served personally with a copy of the initial petition and a petition to terminate the parent-child legal relationship at least 5 days before the date set for hearing. If the person or agency cannot be served personally, the person or agency may be served by publication as provided in 41-3-428 and 41-3-429.

(b) Copies of all other petitions must be served upon the person or the person’s attorney of record by certified mail, by personal service, or by publication as provided in 41-3-428 and 41-3-429. If service is by certified mail, the department must receive a return receipt signed by the person to whom the notice was mailed for the service to be effective. Service of the notice is considered to be effective if, in the absence of a return receipt, the person to whom the notice was mailed appears at the hearing.

(7) If personal service cannot be made upon the parents or parent, guardian, or other person or agency having legal custody, the court shall immediately provide for the appointment or assignment of an attorney as provided for in 41-3-425 to represent the unavailable party when, in the opinion of the court, the interests of justice require. If personal service cannot be made upon a putative father, the court may not provide for the appointment or assignment of counsel as provided for in 41-3-425 to represent the father unless, in the opinion of the court, the interests of justice require counsel to be appointed or assigned.

(8) If a parent of the child is a minor, notice must be given to the minor parent’s parents or guardian, and if there is no guardian, the court shall appoint one.

(9)(a) Any person interested in any cause under this chapter has the right to appear. Any foster parent, preadoptive parent, or relative caring for the child must be given legal notice by the attorney filing the petition of all judicial hearings for the child and has the right to be heard. The right to appear or to be heard does not make that person a party to the action. Any foster parent, preadoptive parent, or relative caring for the child must be given notice of all reviews by the reviewing body.

(b) A foster parent, preadoptive parent, or relative of the child who is caring for or a relative of the child who has cared for a child who is the subject of the petition who appears at a hearing set pursuant to this section may be allowed by the court to intervene in the action if the court, after a hearing in which evidence is presented on those subjects provided for in 41-3-437(4), determines that the intervention of the person is in the best interests of the child. A person granted intervention pursuant to this subsection is entitled to participate in the adjudicatory hearing held pursuant to 41-3-437 and to notice and participation in subsequent proceedings held pursuant to this chapter involving the custody of the child.

(c) Whenever a child is placed with a foster parent, preadoptive parent, or relative, the department shall provide written notice to the foster parent, preadoptive parent, or relative explaining the foster parent’s, preadoptive parent’s, or relative’s rights under this subsection (9) to receive notice, to appear and be heard, and to attempt to intervene in proceedings under this chapter.

(10) An abuse and neglect petition must state:

(a) the nature of the alleged abuse or neglect and of the relief requested;

(b) the full name, age, and address of the child and the name and address of the child’s parents or the guardian or person having legal custody of the child; and

(c) the names, addresses, and relationship to the child of all persons who are necessary parties to the action.

(11) Any party in a proceeding pursuant to this section is entitled to counsel as provided in 41-3-425.

(12) At any stage of the proceedings considered appropriate by the court, the court may order an alternative dispute resolution proceeding or the parties may voluntarily participate in an alternative dispute resolution proceeding. An alternative dispute resolution proceeding under this chapter may include a family engagement meeting, mediation, or a settlement conference. If a court orders an alternative dispute resolution proceeding, a party who does not wish to participate may file a motion objecting to the order. If the department is a party to the original proceeding, a representative of the department who has complete authority to settle the issue or issues in the original proceeding must be present at any alternative dispute resolution proceeding.

(13) Service of a petition under this section must be accompanied by a written notice advising the child’s parent, guardian, or other person having physical or legal custody of the child of the:

(a) right, pursuant to 41-3-425, to appointment or assignment of counsel if the person is indigent or if appointment or assignment of counsel is required under the federal Indian Child Welfare Act or the Montana Indian Child Welfare Act, if applicable;

(b) right to contest the allegations in the petition; and

(c) timelines for hearings and determinations required under this chapter.

(14) If appropriate, orders issued under this chapter must contain a notice provision advising a child’s parent, guardian, or other person having physical or legal custody of the child that:

(a) the court is required by federal and state laws to hold a permanency hearing to determine the permanent placement of a child no later than 12 months after a judge determines that the child has been abused or neglected or 12 months after the first 60 days that the child has been removed from the child’s home;

(b) if a child has been in foster care for 15 of the last 22 months, state law presumes that termination of parental rights is in the best interests of the child and the state is required to file a petition to terminate parental rights; and

(c) completion of a treatment plan does not guarantee the return of a child.

(15) A court may appoint a standing master to conduct hearings and propose decisions and orders to the court for court consideration and action. A standing master may not conduct a proceeding to terminate parental rights. A standing master must be a member of the state bar of Montana and must be knowledgeable in the area of child abuse and neglect laws.

Part 6. Parent-Child Legal Relationship Termination

Updated: 
October 25, 2024

41-3-609. Criteria for termination

Updated: 
October 25, 2024

(1) The court may order a termination of the parent-child legal relationship upon a finding established by clear and convincing evidence, except as provided in the federal Indian Child Welfare Act or the Montana Indian Child Welfare Act provided for in Title 41, chapter 3, part 13, if applicable, that any of the following circumstances exist:

(a) the parents have relinquished the child pursuant to 42-2-402 and 42-2-412;

(b) the child has been abandoned by the parents;

(c) the parent is convicted of a felony in which sexual intercourse occurred or is a minor adjudicated a delinquent youth because of an act that, if committed by an adult, would be a felony in which sexual intercourse occurred and, as a result of the sexual intercourse, the child is born;

(d) the parent has subjected a child to any of the circumstances listed in 41-3-423(2)(a) through (2)(e);

(e) the putative father meets any of the criteria listed in 41-3-423(3)(a) through (3)(c); or

(f) the child is an adjudicated youth in need of care and both of the following exist:

(i) an appropriate treatment plan that has been approved by the court has not been complied with by the parents or has not been successful; and

(ii) the conduct or condition of the parents rendering them unfit is unlikely to change within a reasonable time.

(2) In determining whether the conduct or condition of the parents is unlikely to change within a reasonable time, the court shall enter a finding that continuation of the parent-child legal relationship will likely result in continued abuse or neglect or that the conduct or the condition of the parents renders the parents unfit, unable, or unwilling to give the child adequate parental care. In making the determinations, the court shall consider but is not limited to the following:

(a) emotional illness, mental illness, or mental deficiency of the parent of a duration or nature as to render the parent unlikely to care for the ongoing physical, mental, and emotional needs of the child within a reasonable time;

(b) a history of violent behavior by the parent;

(c) excessive use of intoxicating liquor or of a narcotic or dangerous drug that affects the parent’s ability to care and provide for the child; and

(d) present judicially ordered long-term confinement of the parent.

(3) In considering any of the factors in subsection (2) in terminating the parent-child relationship, the court shall give primary consideration to the physical, mental, and emotional conditions and needs of the child.

(4) A treatment plan is not required under this part upon a finding by the court following hearing if:

(a) the parent meets the criteria of subsections (1)(a) through (1)(e);

(b) two medical doctors or clinical psychologists submit testimony that the parent cannot assume the role of parent within a reasonable time;

(c) the parent is or will be incarcerated for more than 1 year and reunification of the child with the parent is not in the best interests of the child because of the child’s circumstances, including placement options, age, and developmental, cognitive, and psychological needs; or

(d) the death or serious bodily injury, as defined in 45-2-101, of a child caused by abuse or neglect by the parent has occurred.

(5) If a proceeding under this chapter involves an Indian child and is subject to the federal Indian Child Welfare Act or the Montana Indian Child Welfare Act, a qualified expert witness is required to testify that the continued custody of the Indian child by the parent or Indian custodian is likely to result in serious emotional or physical damage to the Indian child.

41-3-615. Reinstatement of parental rights

Updated: 
October 25, 2024

(1) A child whose parent’s rights were terminated under this chapter or a party whose parental rights were terminated under this chapter may petition the court to reinstate parental rights if:

(a) the child was adjudicated a youth in need of care under this chapter;

(b) the child’s parent’s rights were terminated in a proceeding under this chapter;

(c) the child has not achieved the child’s permanency plan or the permanency plan has not been sustained; and

(d) two years have passed since the final order terminating parental rights was entered.

(2) If a parent of a child eligible to petition for reinstatement of parental rights under subsection (1) contacts the department or the child’s guardian ad litem regarding reinstatement of parental rights, the department or the guardian ad litem shall notify the child about the child’s right to petition for reinstatement of parental rights under this section.

(3) A child filing a petition under this section:

(a) is entitled to representation by counsel; and

(b) shall sign the petition unless good cause exists for not doing so.

(4)(a) If, after considering the parent’s fitness and interest in reinstatement of parental rights, the court finds that the best interests of the child may be served by reinstatement of parental rights, the court shall order that a hearing on the merits of the petition be held.

(b) The court shall provide prior notice of a hearing under subsection (4)(a) to:

(i) the department;

(ii) the child’s attorney and the child;

(iii) the child’s parent whose parental rights are the subject of the petition;

(iv) any parent whose rights have not been terminated;

(v) the child’s current foster parent, relative caregiver, guardian, or custodian; and

(vi) if applicable, the child’s tribe.

(5) After a hearing, the court shall conditionally grant the petition, reinstating the rights of one or both parents, if the court finds by clear and convincing evidence that:

(a) both the parent and the child consent to the reinstatement of parental rights;

(b) in accordance with subsection (6):

(i) the child has not achieved the child’s permanency plan and is not likely to imminently achieve the child’s permanency plan; or

(ii) the child has not sustained the child’s permanency plan; and

(c) in accordance with subsection (7), reinstatement of parental rights is in the child’s best interest.

(6) In determining whether the child has achieved the child’s permanency plan or is likely to achieve the child’s permanency plan, the court shall review information provided by the department related to any efforts to achieve the permanency plan, including efforts to achieve adoption or a permanent guardianship.

(7) In determining whether reinstatement of parental rights is in the child’s best interests, the court shall consider but is not limited to the following:

(a) whether the parent whose rights are to be reinstated is a fit parent and has remedied the parent’s deficiencies documented in the record of the termination proceedings and in the termination order;

(b) whether the child is able to express the child’s preference;

(c) whether the reinstatement of parental rights will present a risk to the child’s health, welfare, or safety;

(d) whether the benefit to the child of reinstatement of parental rights outweighs the potential lack of permanency for the child; and

(e) whether other material changes in circumstances exist that would warrant reinstating parental rights.

(8)(a) If the court conditionally grants the petition under subsection (7), the proceedings must be continued for 6 months and a temporary order of reinstatement must be entered.

(b) Except as provided in subsection (8)(c), during this time:

(i) the child must be placed in the parent’s custody; and

(ii) the department shall develop a reunification plan for the child and shall provide transition services to the family, as appropriate.

(c) If at any time the department alleges that the child has been abused or neglected by the parent, the department shall petition the court for an order dismissing the temporary reinstatement of parental rights. The court shall grant the petition based on a preponderance of the evidence that the child has been abused or neglected.

(9)(a) After the child has successfully been placed with the parent for 6 months, the court shall enter a final order reinstating parental rights that restores all rights, powers, privileges, immunities, duties, and obligations of the parent to the child, including those relating to custody, control, and, subject to subsection (9)(c), support of the child. The court shall direct the clerk of court to provide a certified copy of the final order of reinstatement of parental rights to the parent at no cost.

(b) The reinstatement of parental rights pursuant to subsection (9)(a) does not vacate or otherwise affect the validity of the original termination order.

(c) A parent whose rights are reinstated under subsection (9)(a) may not be held liable for any child support owed to the department or costs of other services provided to the child for the period beginning on the date parental rights were terminated and ending on the date parental rights were reinstated.

(10) This section may not be construed to create a cause of action against the state or its employees concerning the original termination.

Title 45. Crimes

Updated: 
October 25, 2024

Chapter 2. General Principles of Liability

Updated: 
October 25, 2024

Part 1. Definitions and State of Mind

Updated: 
October 25, 2024

45-2-101. General definitions

Updated: 
October 25, 2024

Unless otherwise specified in the statute, all words must be taken in the objective standard rather than in the subjective, and unless a different meaning plainly is required, the following definitions apply in this title:

(1) “Acts” has its usual and ordinary meaning and includes any bodily movement, any form of communication, and when relevant, a failure or omission to take action.

(2) “Administrative proceeding” means a proceeding the outcome of which is required to be based on a record or documentation prescribed by law or in which a law or a regulation is particularized in its application to an individual.

(3) “Another” means a person or persons other than the offender.

(4)(a) “Benefit” means gain or advantage or anything regarded by the beneficiary as gain or advantage, including benefit to another person or entity in whose welfare the beneficiary is interested.

(b) Benefit does not include an advantage promised generally to a group or class of voters as a consequence of public measures that a candidate engages to support or oppose.

(5) “Bodily injury” means physical pain, illness, or an impairment of physical condition and includes mental illness or impairment.

(6) “Child” or “children” means any individual or individuals under 18 years of age, unless a different age is specified.

(7) “Cohabit” means to live together under the representation of being married.

(8) “Common scheme” means a series of acts or omissions resulting in a pecuniary loss to the victim of at least $1,500, or $1,500 in value, motivated by a purpose to accomplish a single criminal objective or by a common purpose or plan that results in the repeated commission of the same offense or that affects the same person or the same persons or the property of the same person or persons.

(9) “Computer” means an electronic device that performs logical, arithmetic, and memory functions by the manipulation of electronic or magnetic impulses and includes all input, output, processing, storage, software, or communication facilities that are connected or related to that device in a system or network.

(10) “Computer network” means the interconnection of communication systems between computers or computers and remote terminals.

(11) “Computer program” means an instruction or statement or a series of instructions or statements, in a form acceptable to a computer, that in actual or modified form permits the functioning of a computer or computer system and causes it to perform specified functions.

(12) “Computer services” include but are not limited to computer time, data processing, and storage functions.

(13) “Computer software” means a set of computer programs, procedures, and associated documentation concerned with the operation of a computer system.

(14) “Computer system” means a set of related, connected, or unconnected devices, computer software, or other related computer equipment.

(15) “Conduct” means an act or series of acts and the accompanying mental state.

(16) “Conviction” means a judgment of conviction and sentence entered upon a plea of guilty or nolo contendere or upon a verdict or finding of guilty of an offense rendered by a legally constituted jury or by a court of competent jurisdiction authorized to try the case without a jury.

(17) “Correctional institution” means a state prison, detention center, multijurisdictional detention center, private detention center, regional correctional facility, private correctional facility, or other institution for the incarceration of inmates under sentence for offenses or the custody of individuals awaiting trial or sentence for offenses.

(18) “Deception” means knowingly to:

(a) create or confirm in another an impression that is false and that the offender does not believe to be true;

(b) fail to correct a false impression that the offender previously has created or confirmed;

(c) prevent another from acquiring information pertinent to the disposition of the property involved;

(d) sell or otherwise transfer or encumber property without disclosing a lien, adverse claim, or other legal impediment to the enjoyment of the property, whether the impediment is or is not of value or is or is not a matter of official record; or

(e) promise performance that the offender does not intend to perform or knows will not be performed. Failure to perform, standing alone, is not evidence that the offender did not intend to perform.

(19) “Defamatory matter” means anything that exposes a person or a group, class, or association to hatred, contempt, ridicule, degradation, or disgrace in society or to injury to the person’s or its business or occupation.

(20) “Deprive” means:

(a) to withhold property of another:

(i) permanently;

(ii) for such a period as to appropriate a portion of its value; or

(iii) with the purpose to restore it only upon payment of reward or other compensation; or

(b) to dispose of the property of another and use or deal with the property so as to make it unlikely that the owner will recover it.

(21) “Deviate sexual relations” means any form of sexual intercourse with an animal or dead human body.

(22) “Document” means, with respect to offenses involving the medicaid program, any application, claim, form, report, record, writing, or correspondence, whether in written, electronic, magnetic, microfilm, or other form.

(23) “Felony” means an offense in which the sentence imposed upon conviction is death or imprisonment in a state prison for a term exceeding 1 year.

(24) “Forcible felony” means a felony that involves the use or threat of physical force or violence against any individual.

(25) A “frisk” is a search by an external patting of a person’s clothing.

(26) “Government” includes a branch, subdivision, or agency of the government of the state or a locality within it.

(27) “Harm” means loss, disadvantage, or injury or anything so regarded by the person affected, including loss, disadvantage, or injury to a person or entity in whose welfare the affected person is interested.

(28) A “house of prostitution” means a place where prostitution or promotion of prostitution is regularly carried on by one or more persons under the control, management, or supervision of another.

(29) “Human being” means a person who has been born and is alive.

(30) An “illegal article” is an article or thing that is prohibited by statute, rule, or order from being in the possession of a person subject to official detention.

(31) “Inmate” means a person who is confined in a correctional institution.

(32)(a) “Intoxicating substance” means a controlled substance, as defined in Title 50, chapter 32, and an alcoholic beverage, including but not limited to a beverage containing ½ of 1% or more of alcohol by volume.

(b) Intoxicating substance does not include dealcoholized wine or a beverage or liquid produced by the process by which beer, ale, port, or wine is produced if it contains less than ½ of 1% of alcohol by volume.

(33) An “involuntary act” means an act that is:

(a) a reflex or convulsion;

(b) a bodily movement during unconsciousness or sleep;

(c) conduct during hypnosis or resulting from hypnotic suggestion; or

(d) a bodily movement that otherwise is not a product of the effort or determination of the actor, either conscious or habitual.

(34) “Juror” means a person who is a member of a jury, including a grand jury, impaneled by a court in this state in an action or proceeding or by an officer authorized by law to impanel a jury in an action or proceeding. The term “juror” also includes a person who has been drawn or summoned to attend as a prospective juror.

(35) “Knowingly”–a person acts knowingly with respect to conduct or to a circumstance described by a statute defining an offense when the person is aware of the person’s own conduct or that the circumstance exists. A person acts knowingly with respect to the result of conduct described by a statute defining an offense when the person is aware that it is highly probable that the result will be caused by the person’s conduct. When knowledge of the existence of a particular fact is an element of an offense, knowledge is established if a person is aware of a high probability of its existence. Equivalent terms, such as “knowing” or “with knowledge”, have the same meaning.

(36) “Medicaid” means the Montana medical assistance program provided for in Title 53, chapter 6.

(37) “Medicaid agency” has the meaning in 53-6-155.

(38) “Medicaid benefit” means the provision of anything of pecuniary value to or on behalf of a recipient under the medicaid program.

(39)(a) “Medicaid claim” means a communication, whether in oral, written, electronic, magnetic, or other form:

(i) that is used to claim specific services or items as payable or reimbursable under the medicaid program; or

(ii) that states income, expense, or other information that is or may be used to determine entitlement to or the rate of payment under the medicaid program.

(b) The term includes related documents submitted as a part of or in support of the claim.

(40) “Mentally disordered” means that a person suffers from a mental disease or disorder that renders the person incapable of appreciating the nature of the person’s own conduct.

(41) “Mentally incapacitated” means that a person is rendered temporarily incapable of appreciating or controlling the person’s own conduct as a result of the influence of an intoxicating substance.

(42) “Misdemeanor” means an offense for which the sentence imposed upon conviction is imprisonment in the county jail for a term or a fine, or both, or for which the sentence imposed is imprisonment in a state prison for a term of 1 year or less.

(43) “Negligently”–a person acts negligently with respect to a result or to a circumstance described by a statute defining an offense when the person consciously disregards a risk that the result will occur or that the circumstance exists or when the person disregards a risk of which the person should be aware that the result will occur or that the circumstance exists. The risk must be of a nature and degree that to disregard it involves a gross deviation from the standard of conduct that a reasonable person would observe in the actor’s situation. “Gross deviation” means a deviation that is considerably greater than lack of ordinary care. Relevant terms, such as “negligent” and “with negligence”, have the same meaning.

(44) “Nolo contendere” means a plea in which the defendant does not contest the charge or charges against the defendant and neither admits nor denies the charge or charges.

(45) “Obtain” means:

(a) in relation to property, to bring about a transfer of interest or possession, whether to the offender or to another; and

(b) in relation to labor or services, to secure the performance of the labor or service.

(46) “Obtains or exerts control” includes but is not limited to the taking, the carrying away, or the sale, conveyance, or transfer of title to, interest in, or possession of property.

(47) “Occupied structure” means any building, vehicle, or other place suitable for human occupancy or night lodging of persons or for carrying on business, whether or not a person is actually present, including any outbuilding that is immediately adjacent to or in close proximity to an occupied structure and that is habitually used for personal use or employment. Each unit of a building consisting of two or more units separately secured or occupied is a separate occupied structure.

(48) “Offender” means a person who has been or is liable to be arrested, charged, convicted, or punished for a public offense.

(49) “Offense” means a crime for which a sentence of death or of imprisonment or a fine is authorized. Offenses are classified as felonies or misdemeanors.

(50)(a) “Official detention” means imprisonment resulting from a conviction for an offense, confinement for an offense, confinement of a person charged with an offense, detention by a peace officer pursuant to arrest, detention for extradition or deportation, or lawful detention for the purpose of the protection of the welfare of the person detained or for the protection of society.

(b) Official detention does not include supervision of probation or parole, constraint incidental to release on bail, or an unlawful arrest unless the person arrested employed physical force, a threat of physical force, or a weapon to escape.

(51) “Official proceeding” means a proceeding heard or that may be heard before a legislative, a judicial, an administrative, or another governmental agency or official authorized to take evidence under oath, including any referee, hearings examiner, commissioner, notary, or other person taking testimony or deposition in connection with the proceeding.

(52) “Other state” means a state or territory of the United States, the District of Columbia, and the Commonwealth of Puerto Rico.

(53) “Owner” means a person other than the offender who has possession of or other interest in the property involved, even though the interest or possession is unlawful, and without whose consent the offender has no authority to exert control over the property.

(54) “Party official” means a person who holds an elective or appointive post in a political party in the United States by virtue of which the person directs or conducts or participates in directing or conducting party affairs at any level of responsibility.

(55) “Peace officer” means a person who by virtue of the person’s office or public employment is vested by law with a duty to maintain public order or to make arrests for offenses while acting within the scope of the person’s authority.

(56) “Pecuniary benefit” is benefit in the form of money, property, commercial interests, or anything else the primary significance of which is economic gain.

(57) “Person” includes an individual, business association, partnership, corporation, government, or other legal entity and an individual acting or purporting to act for or on behalf of a government or subdivision of government.

(58) “Physically helpless” means that a person is unconscious or is otherwise physically unable to communicate unwillingness to act.

(59) “Possession” is the knowing control of anything for a sufficient time to be able to terminate control.

(60) “Premises” includes any type of structure or building and real property.

(61) “Property” means a tangible or intangible thing of value. Property includes but is not limited to:

(a) real estate;

(b) money;

(c) commercial instruments;

(d) admission or transportation tickets;

(e) written instruments that represent or embody rights concerning anything of value, including labor or services, or that are otherwise of value to the owner;

(f) things growing on, affixed to, or found on land and things that are part of or affixed to a building;

(g) electricity, gas, and water;

(h) birds, animals, and fish that ordinarily are kept in a state of confinement;

(i) food and drink, samples, cultures, microorganisms, specimens, records, recordings, documents, blueprints, drawings, maps, and whole or partial copies, descriptions, photographs, prototypes, or models thereof;

(j) other articles, materials, devices, substances, and whole or partial copies, descriptions, photographs, prototypes, or models thereof that constitute, represent, evidence, reflect, or record secret scientific, technical, merchandising, production, or management information or a secret designed process, procedure, formula, invention, or improvement; and

(k) electronic impulses, electronically processed or produced data or information, commercial instruments, computer software or computer programs, in either machine- or human-readable form, computer services, any other tangible or intangible item of value relating to a computer, computer system, or computer network, and copies thereof.

(62) “Property of another” means real or personal property in which a person other than the offender has an interest that the offender has no authority to defeat or impair, even though the offender may have an interest in the property.

(63) “Public place” means a place to which the public or a substantial group has access.

(64)(a) “Public servant” means an officer or employee of government, including but not limited to legislators, judges, and firefighters, and a person participating as a juror, adviser, consultant, administrator, executor, guardian, or court-appointed fiduciary. The term “public servant” includes one who has been elected or designated to become a public servant.

(b) The term does not include witnesses.

(65) “Purposely”–a person acts purposely with respect to a result or to conduct described by a statute defining an offense if it is the person’s conscious object to engage in that conduct or to cause that result. When a particular purpose is an element of an offense, the element is established although the purpose is conditional, unless the condition negatives the harm or evil sought to be prevented by the law defining the offense. Equivalent terms, such as “purpose” and “with the purpose”, have the same meaning.

(66)(a) “Serious bodily injury” means bodily injury that:

(i) creates a substantial risk of death;

(ii) causes serious permanent disfigurement or protracted loss or impairment of the function or process of a bodily member or organ; or

(iii) at the time of injury, can reasonably be expected to result in serious permanent disfigurement or protracted loss or impairment of the function or process of a bodily member or organ.

(b) The term includes serious mental illness or impairment.

(67) “Sexual contact” means touching of the sexual or other intimate parts of the person of another, directly or through clothing, in order to knowingly or purposely:

(a) cause bodily injury to or humiliate, harass, or degrade another; or

(b) arouse or gratify the sexual response or desire of either party.

(68)(a) “Sexual intercourse” means penetration of the vulva, anus, or mouth of one person by the penis of another person, penetration of the vulva or anus of one person by a body member of another person, or penetration of the vulva or anus of one person by a foreign instrument or object manipulated by another person to knowingly or purposely:

(i) cause bodily injury or humiliate, harass, or degrade; or

(ii) arouse or gratify the sexual response or desire of either party.

(b) For purposes of subsection (68)(a), any penetration, however slight, is sufficient.

(69) “Solicit” or “solicitation” means to command, authorize, urge, incite, request, or advise another to commit an offense.

(70) “State” or “this state” means the state of Montana, all the land and water in respect to which the state of Montana has either exclusive or concurrent jurisdiction, and the air space above the land and water.

(71) “Statute” means an act of the legislature of this state.

(72) “Stolen property” means property over which control has been obtained by theft.

(73) A “stop” is the temporary detention of a person that results when a peace officer orders the person to remain in the peace officer’s presence.

(74) “Tamper” means to interfere with something improperly, meddle with it, make unwarranted alterations in its existing condition, or deposit refuse upon it.

(75) “Telephone” means any type of telephone, including but not limited to a corded, uncorded, cellular, or satellite telephone.

(76) “Threat” means a menace, however communicated, to:

(a) inflict physical harm on the person threatened or any other person or on property;

(b) subject any person to physical confinement or restraint;

(c) commit a criminal offense;

(d) accuse a person of a criminal offense;

(e) expose a person to hatred, contempt, or ridicule;

(f) harm the credit or business repute of a person;

(g) reveal information sought to be concealed by the person threatened;

(h) take action as an official against anyone or anything, withhold official action, or cause the action or withholding;

(i) bring about or continue a strike, boycott, or other similar collective action if the person making the threat demands or receives property that is not for the benefit of groups that the person purports to represent; or

(j) testify or provide information or withhold testimony or information with respect to another’s legal claim or defense.

(77)(a) “Value” means the market value of the property at the time and place of the crime or, if the market value cannot be satisfactorily ascertained, the cost of the replacement of the property within a reasonable time after the crime. If the offender appropriates a portion of the value of the property, the value must be determined as follows:

(i) The value of an instrument constituting an evidence of debt, such as a check, draft, or promissory note, is considered the amount due or collectible. The figure is ordinarily the face amount of the indebtedness less any portion of the indebtedness that has been satisfied.

(ii) The value of any other instrument that creates, releases, discharges, or otherwise affects any valuable legal right, privilege, or obligation is considered the amount of economic loss that the owner of the instrument might reasonably suffer by virtue of the loss of the instrument.

(iii) The value of electronic impulses, electronically produced data or information, computer software or programs, or any other tangible or intangible item relating to a computer, computer system, or computer network is considered to be the amount of economic loss that the owner of the item might reasonably suffer by virtue of the loss of the item. The determination of the amount of economic loss includes but is not limited to consideration of the value of the owner’s right to exclusive use or disposition of the item.

(b) When it cannot be determined if the value of the property is more or less than $1,500 by the standards set forth in subsection (77)(a), its value is considered to be an amount less than $1,500.

(c) Amounts involved in thefts committed pursuant to a common scheme or the same transaction, whether from the same person or several persons, may be aggregated in determining the value of the property.

(78) “Vehicle” means a device for transportation by land, water, or air or by mobile equipment, with provision for transport of an operator.

(79) “Weapon” means an instrument, article, or substance that, regardless of its primary function, is readily capable of being used to produce death or serious bodily injury.

(80) “Witness” means a person whose testimony is desired in an official proceeding, in any investigation by a grand jury, or in a criminal action, prosecution, or proceeding.

Chapter 5. Offenses Against the Person

Updated: 
October 25, 2024

Part 1. Homicide

Updated: 
October 25, 2024

45-5-102. Deliberate homicide

Updated: 
October 25, 2024

(1) A person commits the offense of deliberate homicide if:
(a) the person purposely or knowingly causes the death of another human being;
(b) the person attempts to commit, commits, or is legally accountable for the attempt or commission of robbery, sexual intercourse without consent, arson, burglary, kidnapping, aggravated kidnapping, felonious escape, assault with a weapon, aggravated assault, or any other forcible felony and in the course of the forcible felony or flight thereafter, the person or any person legally accountable for the crime causes the death of another human being; or
(c) the person purposely or knowingly causes the death of a fetus of another with knowledge that the woman is pregnant.
(2) A person convicted of the offense of deliberate homicide shall be punished by death as provided in 46-18-301 through 46-18-310, unless the person is less than 18 years of age at the time of the commission of the offense, by life imprisonment, or by imprisonment in the state prison for a term of not less than 10 years or more than 100 years, except as provided in 46-18-219 and 46-18-222.

45-5-103. Mitigated deliberate homicide

Updated: 
October 25, 2024

(1) A person commits the offense of mitigated deliberate homicide when the person purposely or knowingly causes the death of another human being or purposely or knowingly causes the death of a fetus of another with knowledge that the woman is pregnant but does so under the influence of extreme mental or emotional stress for which there is reasonable explanation or excuse. The reasonableness of the explanation or excuse must be determined from the viewpoint of a reasonable person in the actor’s situation.
(2) Mitigated deliberate homicide is a lesser included offense of deliberate homicide as defined in 45-5-102(1)(a), but is not a lesser included offense of deliberate homicide as defined in 45-5-102(1)(b).
(3) Mitigating circumstances that reduce deliberate homicide to mitigated deliberate homicide are not an element of the reduced crime that the state is required to prove or an affirmative defense that the defendant is required to prove. Neither party has the burden of proof as to mitigating circumstances, but either party may present evidence of mitigation.
(4) A person convicted of mitigated deliberate homicide shall be imprisoned in the state prison for a term of not less than 2 years or more than 40 years and may be fined not more than $50,000, except as provided in 46-18-219 and 46-18-222.

Part 2. Assault and Related Offenses

Updated: 
October 25, 2024

45-5-201. Assault

Updated: 
October 25, 2024

(1) A person commits the offense of assault if the person:

(a) purposely or knowingly causes bodily injury to another;

(b) negligently causes bodily injury to another with a weapon;

(c) purposely or knowingly makes physical contact of an insulting or provoking nature with any individual;

(d) purposely or knowingly causes reasonable apprehension of bodily injury in another; or

(e) purposely or knowingly provides an individual with rohypnol, flunitrazolam, or gamma-hydroxybutyrate without the individual’s consent.

(2) A person convicted of assault shall be fined not to exceed $500 or be imprisoned in the county jail for any term not to exceed 6 months, or both.

45-5-202. Aggravated assault

Updated: 
October 25, 2024

(1) A person commits the offense of aggravated assault if the person purposely or knowingly causes serious bodily injury to another or purposely or knowingly, with the use of physical force or contact, causes reasonable apprehension of serious bodily injury or death in another.

(2) A person convicted of aggravated assault shall be imprisoned in the state prison for a term not to exceed 20 years and may be fined not more than $50,000, except as provided in 46-18-219 and 46-18-222.

45-5-206. Partner or family member assault -- penalty

Updated: 
October 25, 2024

(1) A person commits the offense of partner or family member assault if the person:
(a) purposely or knowingly causes bodily injury to a partner or family member;
(b) negligently causes bodily injury to a partner or family member with a weapon; or
(c) purposely or knowingly causes reasonable apprehension of bodily injury in a partner or family member.
(2) For the purposes of Title 40, chapter 15, 45-5-231 through 45-5-234, 46-6-311, and this section, the following definitions apply:
(a) “Family member” means mothers, fathers, children, brothers, sisters, and other past or present family members of a household. These relationships include relationships created by adoption and remarriage, including stepchildren, stepparents, in-laws, and adoptive children and parents. These relationships continue regardless of the ages of the parties and whether the parties reside in the same household.
(b) “Partners” means spouses, former spouses, persons who have a child in common, and persons who have been or are currently in a dating or ongoing intimate relationship.
(3)(a)(i) An offender convicted of partner or family member assault shall be fined an amount not less than $100 or more than $1,000 and be imprisoned in the county jail for a term not to exceed 1 year or not less than 24 hours for a first offense.
(ii) An offender convicted of a second offense under this section shall be fined not less than $300 or more than $1,000 and be imprisoned in the county jail not less than 72 hours or more than 1 year.
(iii) Upon a first or second conviction, the offender may be ordered into misdemeanor probation as provided in 46-23-1005.
(iv) On a third or subsequent conviction for partner or family member assault, the offender shall be fined not less than $500 and not more than $50,000 and be imprisoned for a term not less than 30 days and not more than 5 years. If the term of imprisonment does not exceed 1 year, the person shall be imprisoned in the county jail. If the term of imprisonment exceeds 1 year, the person shall be imprisoned in the state prison.
(v) If the offense was committed within the vision or hearing of a minor, the judge shall consider the minor’s presence as a factor at the time of sentencing.
(b) For the purpose of determining the number of convictions under this section, a conviction means:
(i) a conviction, as defined in 45-2-101, under this section;
(ii) a conviction for domestic abuse under this section;
(iii) a conviction for a violation of a statute similar to this section in another state;
(iv) if the offender was a partner or family member of the victim, a conviction for aggravated assault under 45-5-202 or assault with a weapon under 45-5-213;
(v) a conviction for strangulation of a partner or family member under 45-5-215;
(vi) a conviction in another state for an offense related to domestic violence between partners or family members, as those terms are defined in this section, regardless of what the offense is named or whether it is misdemeanor or felony, if the offense involves conduct similar to conduct that is prohibited under 45-5-202, 45-5-213, or this section; or
(vii) a forfeiture of bail or collateral deposited to secure the defendant’s appearance in court in this state or in another state for a violation of a statute similar to this section, which forfeiture has not been vacated.
(4)(a) An offender convicted of partner or family member assault is required to pay for and complete a counseling assessment with a focus on violence, controlling behavior, dangerousness, and chemical dependency. An investigative criminal justice report, as defined in 45-5-231, must be copied and sent to the offender intervention program, as defined in 45-5-231, to assist the counseling provider in properly assessing the offender’s need for counseling and treatment. Counseling providers shall take all required precautions to ensure the confidentiality of the report. If the report contains confidential information relating to the victim’s location or not related to the charged offense, that information must be deleted from the report prior to being sent to the offender intervention program.
(b) The offender shall complete all recommendations for counseling, referrals, attendance at psychoeducational groups, or treatment, including any indicated chemical dependency treatment, made by the counseling provider. The counseling provider must be approved by the court. The counseling must include a preliminary assessment for counseling, as defined in 45-5-231. The offender shall complete a minimum of 40 hours of counseling. The counseling may include attendance at psychoeducational groups, as defined in 45-5-231, in addition to the assessment. The preliminary assessment and counseling that holds the offender accountable for the offender’s violent or controlling behavior must meet the standards established pursuant to 44-7-210 and be:
(i) with a person licensed under Title 37, chapter 17, 22, or 23;
(ii) with a professional person as defined in 53-21-102; or
(iii) in a specialized domestic violence intervention program.
(c) The minimum counseling and attendance at psychoeducational groups provided in subsection (4)(b) must be directed to the violent or controlling conduct of the offender. Other issues indicated by the assessment may be addressed in additional counseling beyond the minimum 40 hours. Subsection (4)(b) does not prohibit the placement of the offender in other appropriate treatment if the court determines that there is no available treatment program directed to the violent or controlling conduct of the offender.
(5) In addition to any sentence imposed under subsections (3) and (4), after determining the financial resources and future ability of the offender to pay restitution as provided for in 46-18-242, the court shall require the offender, if able, to pay the victim’s reasonable actual medical, housing, wage loss, and counseling costs.
(6) In addition to the requirements of subsection (5), if financially able, the offender must be ordered to pay for the costs of the offender’s probation, if probation is ordered by the court.
(7) The court may prohibit an offender convicted under this section from possession or use of the firearm used in the assault. The court may enforce 45-8-323 if a firearm was used in the assault.
(8) The court shall provide an offender with a written copy of the offender’s sentence at the time of sentencing or within 2 weeks of sentencing if the copy is sent electronically or by mail.

45-5-207. Criminal endangerment--penalty

Updated: 
October 25, 2024

(1) A person who knowingly engages in conduct that creates a substantial risk of death or serious bodily injury to another commits the offense of criminal endangerment. This conduct includes but is not limited to knowingly placing in a tree, log, or any other wood any steel, iron, ceramic, or other substance for the purpose of damaging a saw or other wood harvesting, processing, or manufacturing equipment.

(2) A high blood alcohol concentration, alone is not sufficient to support a criminal endangerment charge.

(3) A person convicted of the offense of criminal endangerment shall be fined an amount not to exceed $50,000 or imprisoned in the state prison for a term not to exceed 10 years, or both.

(4) As used in this section, “alcohol concentration” has the meaning provided in 61-8-1001.

45-5-209. Partner or family member assault--no contact order--notice--violation of order--penalty

Updated: 
October 25, 2024

(1) A court may issue a standing no contact order and direct law enforcement to serve the order on a defendant charged with or arrested for a violation of 45-5-206 or, if the victim is a partner or family member of the defendant, a violation of 45-5-202, 45-5-213, or [section 1]. The court order may specify conditions necessary to enhance the safety of any protected person. The court-ordered conditions may include prohibiting the defendant from contacting the protected person in person, by a third party, by telephone, by electronic communication, as defined in 45-8-213, and in writing. The court may impose up to a 1,500-foot restriction on the defendant to stay away from the protected person’s location.

(2) Notice of the no contact order must be given orally and in writing by a peace officer at the time that the offender is charged with or arrested for a violation of 45-5-206 or, if the victim is a partner or family member of the defendant, a violation of 45-5-202, 45-5-213, or [section 1]. One copy of the order must be given to the defendant, and one copy must be filed with the court.

(3) The charge of a violation of 45-5-206 or, if the victim is a partner or family member of the defendant, a violation of 45-5-202, 45-5-213, or [section 1] must be supported by a peace officer’s affidavit of probable cause.

(4) The no contact order issued at the time that the defendant is charged with or arrested for a violation of 45-5-206 or, if the victim is a partner or family member of the defendant, a violation of 45-5-202, 45-5-213, or [section 1] is effective for 72 hours or until the defendant makes the first appearance in court.

(5) The court order must state:

“You have been charged with or arrested for an assault on a partner or family member. You are not allowed to have contact with __________ (list names). You may not__________. Violation of this no contact order is a criminal offense under 45-5-209, MCA, and may result in your arrest. You may be arrested even if the person protected by the no contact order invites or allows you to violate the prohibitions. This order lasts 72 hours or until the court continues or changes the order.”

(6) The court shall review and amend, if appropriate, the no contact order at the defendant’s first appearance.

(7) A no contact order may be issued by a court with jurisdiction over violations of 45-5-206 or, if the victim is a partner or family member of the defendant, violations of 45-5-202, 45-5-213, or [section 1] at the time of the defendant’s arraignment or at any other appearance of the defendant, including sentencing. The no contact order must be in writing. A copy of the no contact order must be given to the defendant when it is issued by the court. The court order shall specify protected persons and prohibited contact, including but not limited to the restriction mentioned in subsection (1).

(8)(a) A person commits the offense of violation of a no contact order if the person, with knowledge of the order, purposely or knowingly violates any provision of any order issued under this section.

(b) Each contact or attempt to make contact with each protected person, directly or indirectly, is a separate offense. Consent of the protected person to prohibited contact is not a defense. A protected person may not be charged with a violation of a no contact order.

(c) An offender convicted of violation of a no contact order shall be fined an amount not to exceed $500 or be imprisoned in the county jail for a term not to exceed 6 months, or both.

(9) As used in this section, the following definitions apply:

(a) “No contact order” means a court order that prohibits a defendant charged with or convicted of an assault on a partner or family member from contacting a protected person.

(b) “Partner” or “family member” has the meaning provided in 45-5-206.

(c) “Protected person” means a victim of a partner or family member assault listed in a no contact order.

45-5-212. Assault on minor

Updated: 
October 25, 2024

(1) A person commits the offense of assault on a minor if the person commits an offense under 45-5-201, and at the time of the offense, the victim is under 14 years of age and the offender is 18 years of age or older.

(2)(a) Except as provided in subsection (2)(b) or (2)(c), a person convicted of assault on a minor shall be imprisoned in a state prison for a term not to exceed 5 years or be fined not more than $50,000, or both.

(b) If at the time of the offense the victim is under 36 months of age, a person convicted of assault on a minor:

(i) for a first offense under this subsection (2)(b) shall be imprisoned in a state prison for a term not to exceed 10 years or be fined not more than $50,000, or both; or

(ii) for a second or subsequent offense under this subsection (2)(b) shall be imprisoned in a state prison for a term not to exceed 20 years or be fined not more than $50,000, or both.

(c) If at the time of the offense the victim is under 36 months of age, a person convicted of assault on a minor that resulted in serious bodily injury to the victim:

(i) for a first offense under this subsection (2)(c) shall be imprisoned in a state prison for a term not to exceed 20 years or be fined not more than $50,000, or both; or

(ii) for a second or subsequent offense under this subsection (2)(c) shall be imprisoned in a state prison for a term not to exceed 40 years or be fined not more than $50,000, or both.

(3) An offender convicted of an offense under subsection (2)(b) or (2)(c) shall pay for and complete a counseling assessment with a focus on violence, controlling behavior, dangerousness, and chemical dependency and complete all recommendations for counseling, referrals, attendance at psychoeducational groups, or treatment, including any indicated chemical dependency treatment, made by the counseling provider. The counseling provider must be approved by the court and be a person licensed under Title 37, chapter 17, 22, or 23, or a professional person as defined in 53-21-102. The offender shall complete a minimum of 40 hours of counseling.

45-5-214. Assault with bodily fluid

Updated: 
October 25, 2024

(1) A person commits the offense of assault with a bodily fluid if the person purposely causes one of the person’s bodily fluids to make physical contact with:

(a) a law enforcement officer, a staff person of a correctional or detention facility, or a health care provider, as defined in 50-4-504, including a health care provider performing emergency services, while the health care provider is acting in the course and scope of the health care provider’s profession and occupation:

(i) during or after an arrest for a criminal offense;

(ii) while the person is incarcerated in or being transported to or from a state prison, a county, city, or regional jail or detention facility, or a health care facility; or

(iii) if the person is a minor, while the youth is detained in or being transported to or from a county, city, or regional jail or detention facility or a youth detention facility, secure detention facility, regional detention facility, short-term detention center, correctional facility as defined in 41-5-103, health care facility, or shelter care facility; or

(b) an emergency responder.

(2) A person convicted of the offense of assault with a bodily fluid shall be fined an amount not to exceed $1,000 or incarcerated in a county jail or a state prison for a term not to exceed 1 year, or both.

(3) The youth court has jurisdiction of any violation of this section by a minor.

(4) As used in this section, the following definitions apply:

(a) “Bodily fluid” means any bodily secretion, including but not limited to feces, urine, blood, and saliva.(b) “Emergency responder” means a licensed medical services provider, law enforcement officer, firefighter, volunteer firefighter or officer of a nonprofit volunteer fire company, emergency care provider, emergency nurse, ambulance operator, provider of civil defense services, or any other person who in good faith renders emergency care or assistance at a crime scene or the scene of an emergency or accident.

45-5-215. Strangulation of partner or family member

Updated: 
October 25, 2024

(1) A person commits the offense of strangulation of a partner or family member if the person purposely or knowingly impedes the normal breathing or circulation of the blood of a partner or family member by:

(a) applying pressure on the throat or neck of the partner or family member; or

(b) blocking air flow to the nose and mouth of the partner or family member.

(2)(a) A person convicted of a first offense of strangulation of a partner or family member shall be fined an amount not to exceed $50,000 or be imprisoned in the state prison for a term not to exceed 5 years, or both.

(b) A person convicted of a second or subsequent offense under this section shall be imprisoned in the state prison for a term of not less than 2 years or more than 20 years and may be fined an amount not more than $50,000, except as provided in 46-18-219 and 46-18-222.

(3) A person convicted of strangulation of a partner or family member is required to pay for and complete a counseling assessment as required in 45-5-206(4).

(4) For the purposes of this section, “partner” and “family member” have the meanings provided in 45-5-206.

45-5-220. Stalking -- exemption -- penalty

Updated: 
October 25, 2024

(1) A person commits the offense of stalking if the person purposely or knowingly engages in a course of conduct directed at a specific person and knows or should know that the course of conduct would cause a reasonable person to:

(a) fear for the person’s own safety or the safety of a third person; or

(b) suffer other substantial emotional distress.

(2) For the purposes of this section, the following definitions apply:

(a) “Course of conduct” means two or more acts, including but not limited to acts in which the offender directly or indirectly, by any action, method, communication, or physical or electronic devices or means, follows, monitors, observes, surveils, threatens, harasses, or intimidates a person or interferes with a person’s property.

(b) “Monitors” includes the use of any electronic, digital, or global positioning device or similar technological means.

(c) “Reasonable person” means a reasonable person under similar circumstances as the victim. This is an objective standard.

(d) “Substantial emotional distress” means significant mental suffering or distress that may but does not necessarily require medical or other professional treatment or counseling.

(3) This section does not apply to a constitutionally protected activity.

(4)(a) Except as provided in subsection (4)(b), for the first offense, a person convicted of stalking shall be imprisoned in the county jail for a term not to exceed 1 year or fined an amount not to exceed $1,000, or both.

(b) For a second or subsequent offense within 20 years or for a first offense when the offender violated any order of protection, when the offender used force or a weapon or threatened to use force or a weapon, or when the victim is a minor and the offender is at least 5 years older than the victim, the offender shall be imprisoned in the state prison for a term not to exceed 5 years or fined an amount not to exceed $10,000, or both.

(c) A person convicted of stalking may be sentenced to pay all medical, counseling, and other costs incurred by or on behalf of the victim as a result of the offense.

(5) Upon presentation of credible evidence of violation of this section, an order may be granted, as set forth in Title 40, chapter 15, restraining a person from engaging in the activity described in subsection (1).

(6) For the purpose of determining the number of convictions under this section, “conviction” means:

(a) a conviction, as defined in 45-2-101, in this state;

(b) a conviction for a violation of a statute similar to this section in another state; or

(c) a forfeiture of bail or collateral deposited to secure the defendant’s appearance in court in this state or another state for a violation of a statute similar to this section, which forfeiture has not been vacated.

(7) Attempts by the accused person to contact or follow the stalked person after the accused person has been given actual notice that the stalked person does not want to be contacted or followed constitutes prima facie evidence that the accused person purposely or knowingly followed, harassed, threatened, or intimidated the stalked person.

45-5-223. Surreptitious visual observation or recordation--place of residence--public place--exceptions

Updated: 
October 25, 2024

(1) A person commits the offense of surreptitious visual observation or recordation in a place of residence if the person purposely or knowingly hides, waits, or otherwise loiters in person or by means of a remote electronic device within or in the vicinity of a private dwelling house, apartment, or other place of residence for the purpose of:

(a) watching, gazing at, or looking upon any occupant in the residence in a surreptitious manner without the occupant’s knowledge; or

(b) by means of an electronic device, surreptitiously observing or recording the visual image of any occupant in the residence without the occupant’s knowledge.

(2) A person commits the offense of surreptitious visual observation or recordation in public if the person purposely or knowingly observes or records a visual image of the sexual or intimate parts of another person in a public place without the other person’s knowledge when the victim has a reasonable expectation of privacy.

(3) Subsections (1) and (2) do not apply to a law enforcement officer, an agent or employee of an insurer, or a private investigator licensed pursuant to 37-60-301 or to any person engaged in fraud detection, prevention, or prosecution pursuant to 2-15-2015 or 39-71-211 while the officer, agent, employee, or private investigator is acting in the course and scope of employment for legitimate investigative purposes.

(4) A person convicted of an offense under subsection (1) or (2) shall be fined an amount not to exceed $500 or be incarcerated in the county jail for a term not to exceed 6 months, or both. Upon a second conviction, a person shall be fined an amount not to exceed $1,000 or be incarcerated for a term not to exceed 1 year, or both. Upon a third or subsequent conviction, a person shall be fined an amount not to exceed $10,000 or be incarcerated for a term not to exceed 5 years, or both.

Part 3. Kidnapping

Updated: 
October 25, 2024

45-5-304. Custodial interference

Updated: 
October 25, 2024

(1) A person commits the offense of custodial interference if, knowing that the person has no legal right to do so, the person takes, entices, or withholds from lawful custody any child, incompetent person, or other person entrusted by authority of law to the custody of another person or institution.

(2) A person convicted of the offense of custodial interference shall be imprisoned in the state prison for any term not to exceed 10 years or be fined an amount not to exceed $50,000, or both.

(3) With respect to the first alleged commission of the offense only, a person who has not left the state does not commit an offense under this section if the person voluntarily returns the child, incompetent person, or other person to lawful custody before arraignment. With respect to the first alleged commission of the offense only, a person who has left the state does not commit an offense under this section if the person voluntarily returns the child, incompetent person, or other person to lawful custody before arrest.

Part 5. Sexual Crimes

Updated: 
October 25, 2024

45-5-502. Sexual assault

Updated: 
October 25, 2024

(1) A person who knowingly subjects another person to any sexual contact without consent commits the offense of sexual assault.

(2) Except as provided in subsections (3) and (4):

(a) on a first conviction for sexual assault, the offender shall be fined an amount not to exceed $500 or be imprisoned in the county jail for a term not to exceed 6 months, or both;

(b) on a second conviction for sexual assault, the offender shall be fined an amount not to exceed $1,000 or be imprisoned in the county jail for a term not to exceed 1 year, or both; and

(c) on a third and subsequent conviction for sexual assault, the offender shall be fined an amount not to exceed $10,000 or be imprisoned for a term not to exceed 5 years, or both.

(3) If the victim is less than 16 years old and the offender is 3 or more years older than the victim or if the offender inflicts bodily injury upon anyone in the course of committing sexual assault, the offender shall be punished by life imprisonment or by imprisonment in the state prison for a term of not less than 4 years, unless the judge makes a written finding that there is good cause to impose a term of less than 4 years and imposes a term of less than 4 years, or more than 100 years and may be fined not more than $50,000.

(4) If the victim is a client receiving psychotherapy services and the offender is providing or purporting to provide psychotherapy services to the victim, the offender shall be punished by life imprisonment or by imprisonment in the state prison for a term of not less than 4 years, unless the judge makes a written finding that there is good cause to impose a term of less than 4 years and imposes a term of less than 4 years, or more than 100 years and may be fined not more than $50,000.

(5) An act “in the course of committing sexual assault” includes an attempt to commit the offense or flight after the attempt or commission.

(6)(a) Subject to subsections (6)(b) through (6)(f), consent is ineffective under this section if the victim is:

(i) incarcerated in an adult or juvenile correctional, detention, or treatment facility or is on probation, conditional release, or parole and the perpetrator is an employee, contractor, or volunteer of the supervising authority and has supervisory or disciplinary authority over the victim, unless the act is part of a lawful search;

(ii) less than 14 years old and the offender is 3 or more years older than the victim;

(iii) receiving services from a youth care facility, as defined in 52-2-602, and the perpetrator:

(A) has supervisory or disciplinary authority over the victim or is providing treatment to the victim; and

(B) is an employee, contractor, or volunteer of the youth care facility;

(iv) admitted to a mental health facility, as defined in 53-21-102, is admitted to a community-based facility or a residential facility, as those terms are defined in 53-20-102, or is receiving community-based services, as defined in 53-20-102, and the perpetrator:

(A) has supervisory or disciplinary authority over the victim or is providing treatment to the victim; and

(B) is an employee, contractor, or volunteer of the facility or community-based service;

(v) a program participant, as defined in 52-2-802, in a private alternative adolescent residential or outdoor program, pursuant to Title 52, chapter 2, part 8, and the perpetrator is a person associated with the program, as defined in 52-2-802;

(vi) the victim is a client receiving psychotherapy services and the perpetrator:

(A) is providing or purporting to provide psychotherapy services to the victim; or

(B) is an employee, contractor, or volunteer of a facility that provides or purports to provide psychotherapy services to the victim and the perpetrator has supervisory or disciplinary authority over the victim; or

(vii) a student of an elementary, middle, junior high, or high school, whether public or nonpublic, and the perpetrator is not a student of an elementary, middle, junior high, or high school and is an employee, contractor, or volunteer of any school who has ever had instructional, supervisory, disciplinary, or other authority over the student in a school setting.

(b) Subsection (6)(a)(i) does not apply if one of the parties is on probation, conditional release, or parole and the other party is a probation or parole officer of the supervising authority and the parties are married to each other.

(c) Subsections (6)(a)(iii) and (6)(a)(iv) do not apply if the individuals are married to each other and one of the individuals involved is a patient in or resident of a facility, is a recipient of community-based services, or is receiving services from a youth care facility and the other individual is an employee, contractor, or volunteer of the facility or community-based service.

(d) Subsection (6)(a)(v) does not apply if the individuals are married to each other and one of the individuals involved is a program participant and the other individual is a person associated with the program.

(e) Subsection (6)(a)(vi) does not apply if the individuals are married to each other and one of the individuals involved is a psychotherapy client and the other individual is a psychotherapist or an employee, contractor, or volunteer of a facility that provides or purports to provide psychotherapy services to the client.

(f) Subsection (6)(a)(vii) does not apply if the individuals are married to each other.

45-5-503. Sexual intercourse without consent

Updated: 
October 25, 2024

(1) A person who knowingly has sexual intercourse with another person without consent or with another person who is incapable of consent commits the offense of sexual intercourse without consent. A person may not be convicted under this section based on the age of the person’s spouse, as provided in 45-5-501(1)(b)(iv).

(2) A person convicted of sexual intercourse without consent shall be punished by life imprisonment or by imprisonment in the state prison for a term of not more than 20 years and may be fined not more than $50,000, except as provided in 46-18-219, 46-18-222, and subsections (3), (4), and (5) of this section.

(3)(a) If the victim is less than 16 years old and the offender is 4 or more years older than the victim or if the offender inflicts bodily injury on anyone in the course of committing sexual intercourse without consent, the offender shall be punished by life imprisonment or by imprisonment in the state prison for a term of not less than 4 years or more than 100 years and may be fined not more than $50,000, except as provided in 46-18-219 and 46-18-222.

(b) If two or more persons are convicted of sexual intercourse without consent with the same victim in an incident in which each offender was present at the location where another offender’s offense occurred during a time period in which each offender could have reasonably known of the other’s offense, each offender shall be punished by life imprisonment or by imprisonment in the state prison for a term of not less than 5 years or more than 100 years and may be fined not more than $50,000, except as provided in 46-18-219 and 46-18-222.

(c) If the offender was previously convicted of an offense under this section or of an offense under the laws of another state or of the United States that if committed in this state would be an offense under this section and if the offender inflicted serious bodily injury on a person in the course of committing each offense, the offender shall be:

(i) punished by death as provided in 46-18-301 through 46-18-310, unless the offender is less than 18 years of age at the time of the commission of the offense; or

(ii) punished as provided in 46-18-219.

(4)(a) If the victim was 12 years of age or younger and the offender in the course of committing a violation of this section was 18 years of age or older at the time of the offense, the offender:

(i) shall be punished by imprisonment in a state prison for a term of 100 years. The court may not suspend execution or defer imposition of the first 25 years of a sentence of imprisonment imposed under this subsection (4)(a)(i) except as provided in 46-18-222(1) through (5), and during the first 25 years of imprisonment, the offender is not eligible for parole. The exception provided in 46-18-222(6) does not apply.

(ii) may be fined an amount not to exceed $50,000; and

(iii) shall be ordered to enroll in and successfully complete the educational phase and the cognitive and behavioral phase of a sexual offender treatment program provided or approved by the department of corrections.

(b) If the offender is released after the mandatory minimum period of imprisonment, the offender is subject to supervision by the department of corrections for the remainder of the offender’s life and shall participate in the program for continuous, satellite-based monitoring provided for in 46-23-1010.

(5) If the victim is at least 14 years of age and the offender is 18 years of age or younger, the offender may be punished by imprisonment in the state prison for a term of not more than 5 years and may be fined not more than $10,000 if:

(a) the offender has not previously been found to have committed or been adjudicated for a sexual offense as defined in 46-23-502;

(b) a psychosexual evaluation of the offender has been prepared and the court finds that registration is not necessary for protection of the public and that relief from registration is in the public’s best interest; and

(c) the court finds that the alleged conduct was consensual as indicated by words or overt actions indicating a freely given agreement to have sexual intercourse or sexual contact.

(6) In addition to any sentence imposed under subsection (2) or (3), after determining the financial resources and future ability of the offender to pay restitution as required by 46-18-242, the court shall require the offender, if able, to pay the victim’s reasonable medical and counseling costs that result from the offense. The amount, method, and time of payment must be determined in the same manner as provided for in 46-18-244.

(7) As used in subsections (3) and (4), an act “in the course of committing sexual intercourse without consent” includes an attempt to commit the offense or the act of flight after the attempt or commission.

(8) If as a result of sexual intercourse without consent a child is born, the offender who has been convicted of an offense under this section and who is the biological parent of the child resulting from the sexual intercourse without consent forfeits all parental and custodial rights to the child if the provisions of 46-1-401 have been followed.

45-5-507. Incest

Updated: 
October 25, 2024

(1) A person commits the offense of incest if the person knowingly marries, cohabits with, has sexual intercourse with, or has sexual contact, as defined in 45-2-101, with an ancestor, a descendant, a brother or sister of the whole or half blood, a nephew or niece, or any stepson or stepdaughter. The relationships referred to in this subsection include blood relationships without regard to legitimacy, relationships of parent and child by adoption, and relationships involving a stepson or stepdaughter.

(2)(a) Consent is a defense to incest with or upon a stepson or stepdaughter, but consent is ineffective if the stepson or stepdaughter is less than 18 years of age and the stepparent is 4 or more years older than the stepson or stepdaughter.

(b) A person who is less than 18 years of age is not legally responsible or legally accountable for the offense of incest and is considered a victim of the offense of incest if the other person in the incestuous relationship is 4 or more years older than the victim.

(3) Except as provided in subsections (4) and (5), a person convicted of incest shall be punished by life imprisonment or by imprisonment in the state prison for a term not to exceed 100 years or be fined an amount not to exceed $50,000.

(4) If the victim is under 16 years of age and the offender is 3 or more years older than the victim or if the offender inflicts bodily injury upon anyone in the course of committing incest, the offender shall be punished by life imprisonment or by imprisonment in the state prison for a term of not less than 4 years or more than 100 years and may be fined not more than $50,000.

(5)(a) If the victim was 12 years of age or younger and the offender was 18 years of age or older at the time of the offense, the offender:

(i) shall be punished by imprisonment in a state prison for a term of 100 years. The court may not suspend execution or defer imposition of the first 25 years of a sentence of imprisonment imposed under this subsection (5)(a)(i) except as provided in 46-18-222(1) through (5), and during the first 25 years of imprisonment, the offender is not eligible for parole. The exception provided in 46-18-222(6) does not apply.

(ii) may be fined an amount not to exceed $50,000; and

(iii) shall be ordered to enroll in and successfully complete the educational phase and the cognitive and behavioral phase of a sexual offender treatment program provided or approved by the department of corrections.

(b) If the offender is released after the mandatory minimum period of imprisonment, the offender is subject to supervision by the department of corrections for the remainder of the offender’s life and shall participate in the program for continuous, satellite-based monitoring provided for in 46-23-1010.

(6) In addition to any sentence imposed under subsection (3), (4), or (5), after determining the financial resources and future ability of the offender to pay restitution as required by 46-18-242, the court shall require the offender, if able, to pay the victim’s reasonable costs of counseling that result from the offense. The amount, method, and time of payment must be determined in the same manner as provided for in 46-18-244.

Part 6. Offenses Against The Family

Updated: 
October 25, 2024

45-5-622. Endangering welfare of children

Updated: 
October 25, 2024

(1) A parent, guardian, or other person supervising the welfare of a child less than 18 years old commits the offense of endangering the welfare of children if the parent, guardian, or other person knowingly endangers the child’s welfare by violating a duty of care, protection, or support.

(2) Except as provided in 16-6-305, a parent or guardian or any person who is 18 years of age or older, whether or not the parent, guardian, or other person is supervising the welfare of the child, commits the offense of endangering the welfare of children if the parent, guardian, or other person knowingly contributes to the delinquency of a child less than:

(a) 18 years old by:

(i) supplying or encouraging the use of an intoxicating substance by the child; or

(ii) assisting, promoting, or encouraging the child to enter a place of prostitution; or

(b) 16 years old by assisting, promoting, or encouraging the child to:

(i) abandon the child’s place of residence without the consent of the child’s parents or guardian; or

(ii) engage in sexual conduct.

(3) A person, whether or not the person is supervising the welfare of a child less than 18 years of age, commits the offense of endangering the welfare of children if the person, in the residence of a child, in a building, structure, conveyance, or outdoor location where a child might reasonably be expected to be present, in a room offered to the public for overnight accommodation, or in any multiple-unit residential building, knowingly:

(a) produces or manufactures methamphetamine or attempts to produce or manufacture methamphetamine;

(b) possesses any material, compound, mixture, or preparation that contains any combination of the items listed in 45-9-107 with intent to manufacture methamphetamine; or

(c) causes or permits a child to inhale, be exposed to, have contact with, or ingest methamphetamine or be exposed to or have contact with methamphetamine paraphernalia.

(4) A parent, guardian, or other person supervising the welfare of a child less than 16 years of age may verbally or in writing request a person who is 18 years of age or older and who has no legal right of supervision or control over the child to stop contacting the child if the requester believes that the contact is not in the child’s best interests. If the person continues to contact the child, the parent, guardian, or other person supervising the welfare of the child may petition or the county attorney may upon the person’s request petition for an order of protection under Title 40, chapter 15. To the extent that they are consistent with this subsection, the provisions of Title 40, chapter 15, apply. A person who purposely or knowingly violates an order of protection commits the offense of endangering the welfare of children and upon conviction shall be sentenced as provided in subsection (5)(a).

(5) (a) Except as provided in subsection (5)(b), a person convicted of endangering the welfare of children shall be fined an amount not to exceed $500 or be imprisoned in the county jail for any term not to exceed 6 months, or both. A person convicted of a second offense of endangering the welfare of children shall be fined an amount not to exceed $1,000 or be imprisoned in the county jail for any term not to exceed 6 months, or both.

(b) A person convicted under subsection (3) is guilty of a felony and shall be imprisoned in the state prison for a term not to exceed 5 years and may be fined an amount not to exceed $10,000, or both. If a child suffers serious bodily injury, the offender shall be fined an amount not to exceed $25,000 or be imprisoned for a term not to exceed 10 years, or both. Prosecution or conviction of a violation of subsection (3) does not bar prosecution or conviction for any other crime committed by the offender as part of the same conduct.

(6) On the issue of whether there has been a violation of the duty of care, protection, and support, the following, in addition to all other admissible evidence, is admissible: cruel treatment; abuse; infliction of unnecessary and cruel punishment; abandonment; neglect; lack of proper medical care, clothing, shelter, and food; and evidence of past bodily injury.

(7) The court may order, in its discretion, any fine levied or any bond forfeited upon a charge of endangering the welfare of children paid to or for the benefit of the person or persons whose welfare the defendant has endangered.

45-5-625. Sexual abuse of children

Updated: 
October 25, 2024

(1) A person commits the offense of sexual abuse of children if the person:

(a) knowingly employs, uses, or permits the employment or use of a child in an exhibition of sexual conduct, actual or simulated;

(b) knowingly photographs, films, videotapes, develops or duplicates the photographs, films, or videotapes, or records a child engaging in sexual conduct, actual or simulated;

(c) knowingly, by any means of communication, including electronic communication or in person, persuades, entices, counsels, coerces, encourages, directs, or procures a child under 16 years of age or a person the offender believes to be a child under 16 years of age to engage in sexual conduct, actual or simulated, or to view sexually explicit material or acts for the purpose of inducing or persuading a child to participate in any sexual activity that is illegal;

(d) knowingly processes, develops, prints, publishes, transports, distributes, sells, exhibits, or advertises any visual or print medium, including a medium by use of electronic communication in which a child is engaged in sexual conduct, actual or simulated;

(e) knowingly possesses any visual or print medium, including a medium by use of electronic communication in which a child is engaged in sexual conduct, actual or simulated;

(f) finances any of the activities described in subsections (1)(a) through (1)(d) and (1)(g), knowing that the activity is of the nature described in those subsections;

(g) possesses with intent to sell any visual or print medium, including a medium by use of electronic communication in which a child is engaged in sexual conduct, actual or simulated;

(h) knowingly travels within, from, or to this state with the intention of meeting a child under 16 years of age or a person the offender believes to be a child under 16 years of age in order to engage in sexual conduct, actual or simulated; or

(i) knowingly coerces, entices, persuades, arranges for, or facilitates a child under 16 years of age or a person the offender believes to be a child under 16 years of age to travel within, from, or to this state with the intention of engaging in sexual conduct, actual or simulated.

(2)(a) Except as provided in subsection (2)(b), (2)(c), or (4), a person convicted of the offense of sexual abuse of children shall be punished by life imprisonment or by imprisonment in the state prison for a term not to exceed 100 years and may be fined not more than $10,000.

(b) Except as provided in 46-18-219, if the victim is under 16 years of age, a person convicted of the offense of sexual abuse of children shall be punished by life imprisonment or by imprisonment in the state prison for a term of not less than 4 years or more than 100 years and may be fined not more than $10,000.

(c) Except as provided in 46-18-219, a person convicted of the offense of sexual abuse of children for the possession of material, as provided in subsection (1)(e), shall be fined not to exceed $10,000 or be imprisoned in the state prison for a term not to exceed 10 years, or both.

(3) An offense is not committed under subsections (1)(d) through (1)(g) if the visual or print medium is processed, developed, printed, published, transported, distributed, sold, possessed, or possessed with intent to sell, or if the activity is financed, as part of a sexual offender information or treatment course or program conducted or approved by the department of corrections.

(4)(a) If the victim was 12 years of age or younger and the offender was 18 years of age or older at the time of the offense, the offender:

(i) shall be punished by imprisonment in a state prison for a term of 100 years. The court may not suspend execution or defer imposition of the first 25 years of a sentence of imprisonment imposed under this subsection (4)(a)(i) except as provided in 46-18-222(1) through (5), and during the first 25 years of imprisonment, the offender is not eligible for parole. The exception provided in 46-18-222(6) does not apply.

(ii) may be fined an amount not to exceed $50,000; and

(iii) shall be ordered to enroll in and successfully complete the educational phase and the cognitive and behavioral phase of a sexual offender treatment program provided or approved by the department of corrections.

(b) If the offender is released after the mandatory minimum period of imprisonment, the offender is subject to supervision by the department of corrections for the remainder of the offender’s life and shall participate in the program for continuous, satellite-based monitoring provided for in 46-23-1010.

(5) As used in this section, the following definitions apply:

(a) “Electronic communication” means a sign, signal, writing, image, sound, data, or intelligence of any nature transmitted or created in whole or in part by a wire, radio, electromagnetic, photoelectronic, or photo-optical system.

(b) “Sexual conduct” means:

(i) actual or simulated:

(A) sexual intercourse, whether between persons of the same or opposite sex, as defined in 1-1-201;

(B) penetration of the vagina or rectum by any object, except when done as part of a recognized medical procedure;

(C) bestiality;

(D) masturbation;

(E) sadomasochistic abuse;

(F) lewd exhibition of the genitals, breasts, pubic or rectal area, or other intimate parts of any person; or

(G) defecation or urination for the purpose of the sexual stimulation of the viewer; or

(ii) depiction of a child in the nude or in a state of partial undress with the purpose to abuse, humiliate, harass, or degrade the child or to arouse or gratify the person’s own sexual response or desire or the sexual response or desire of any person.

(c) “Simulated” means any depicting of the genitals or pubic or rectal area that gives the appearance of sexual conduct or incipient sexual conduct.

(d) “Visual medium” means:

(i) any film, photograph, videotape, negative, slide, or photographic reproduction that contains or incorporates in any manner any film, photograph, videotape, negative, or slide; or

(ii) any disk, diskette, or other physical media that allows an image to be displayed on a computer or other video screen and any image transmitted to a computer or other video screen by telephone line, cable, satellite transmission, or other method.

45-5-626. Violation of order of protection

Updated: 
October 25, 2024

(1) Except as provided in [section 9], a person commits the offense of violation of an order of protection if the person, with knowledge of the order, purposely or knowingly violates a provision of any order provided for in 40-4-121 or an order of protection under Title 40, chapter 15. It may be inferred that the defendant had knowledge of an order at the time of an offense if the defendant had been served with the order before the time of the offense. Service of the order is not required upon a showing that the defendant had knowledge of the order and its content.

(2) Only the respondent under an order of protection may be cited for a violation of the order. The petitioner who filed for an order of protection may not be cited for a violation of that order of protection.

(3) An offender convicted of violation of an order of protection shall be fined not to exceed $500 or be imprisoned in the county jail for a term not to exceed 6 months, or both, for a first offense. Upon conviction for a second offense, an offender shall be fined not less than $200 and not more than $500 and be imprisoned in the county jail not less than 24 hours and not more than 6 months. Upon conviction for a third or subsequent offense, an offender shall be fined not less than $500 and not more than $2,000 and be imprisoned in the county jail or state prison for a term not less than 10 days and not more than 2 years.

45-5-631. Interference with parent-child contact

Updated: 
October 25, 2024

(1) A person who has been granted parent-child contact under a parenting plan commits the offense of interference with parent-child contact if the person knowingly or purposely prevents, obstructs, or frustrates the rights of another person entitled to parent-child contact under an existing court order.

(2) A person convicted of the offense of interference with parent-child contact shall be fined an amount not to exceed $500 or be imprisoned in the county jail for a term not to exceed 5 days, or both.

45-5-632. Aggravated interference with parent-child contact

Updated: 
October 25, 2024

(1) A person who commits the offense of interference with parent-child contact by changing the residence of the minor child to another state without giving written notice as required in 40-4-217, unless the notice requirement has been precluded under 40-4-234, or without written consent of the person entitled to parent-child contact pursuant to an existing court order commits the offense of aggravated interference with parent-child contact.

(2) A person convicted of the offense of aggravated interference with parent-child contact shall be fined an amount not to exceed $1,000 or be imprisoned in the state prison for a term not to exceed 18 months, or both.

45-5-633. Defenses to interference with parent-child contact and aggravated interference with parent-child contact

Updated: 
October 25, 2024

(1) A person does not commit the offense of interference with parent-child contact or aggravated interference with parent-child contact if the person acts:

(a) with the consent of the person entitled to parent-child contact;
(b) under an existing court order; or
(c) with reasonable cause.

(2) Return of the child before arrest is a defense only with respect to the first commission of interference with parent-child contact or aggravated interference with parent-child contact.

45-5-634. Parenting interference

Updated: 
October 25, 2024

(1) A person commits the offense of parenting interference if, knowing that the person has no legal right to do so, the person:

(a) before the entry of a court order determining parenting rights, takes, entices, or withholds a child from the other parent when the action manifests a purpose to substantially deprive that parent of parenting rights; or
(b) is one of two persons who has parenting authority of a child under a court order and takes, entices, or withholds the child from the other when the action manifests a purpose to substantially deprive the other parent of parenting rights.

(2) A person convicted of the offense of parenting interference shall be imprisoned in the state prison for any term not to exceed 10 years or be fined an amount not to exceed $50,000, or both.

(3) With respect to the first alleged commission of the offense only, a person who has not left the state does not commit an offense under this section if the person voluntarily returns the child before arraignment. With respect to the first alleged commission of the offense only, a person who has left the state does not commit an offense under this section if the person voluntarily returns the child before arrest.

Part 7. Human Trafficking

Updated: 
October 25, 2024

45-5-701. Definitions

Updated: 
October 25, 2024

As used in this part, the following definitions apply:

(1) “Adult” means a person 18 years of age or older.

(2) “Coercion” means:

(a) the use or threat of force against, abduction of, serious harm to, or physical restraint of a person;

(b) the use of a plan, pattern, or statement with intent to cause a person to believe that failure to perform an act will result in the use of force against, abduction of, serious harm to, or physical restraint of a person;

(c) the abuse or threatened abuse of law or legal process;

(d) controlling or threatening to control a person’s access to any substance defined as a dangerous drug pursuant to Title 50, chapter 32, parts 1 and 2;

(e) the actual or threatened destruction or taking of a person’s identification document or other property;

(f) the use of debt bondage;

(g) the use of a person’s physical or mental impairment when the impairment has a substantial adverse effect on the person’s cognitive or volitional function; or

(h) the commission of civil or criminal fraud.

(3) “Commercial sexual activity” means sexual activity for which anything of value is given to, promised to, or received by a person.

(4) “Debt bondage” means inducing a person to provide:

(a) commercial sexual activity in payment toward or satisfaction of a real or purported debt; or

(b) labor or services in payment toward or satisfaction of a real or purported debt if:

(i) the reasonable value of the labor or services is not applied toward the liquidation of the debt; or

(ii) the length of the labor or services is not limited and the nature of the labor or services is not defined.

(5) “Human trafficking” means the commission of an offense under 45-5-702, 45-5-703, 45-5-705, 45-5-706, or 45-5-711.

(6) “Identification document” means a passport, driver’s license, immigration document, travel document, or other government-issued identification document, including a document issued by a foreign government.

(7) “Labor or services” means activity having economic value.

(8) “Prostitution” has the meaning provided in 45-5-601.

(9) “Serious harm” means physical or nonphysical harm, including psychological, economic, or reputational harm to a person that would compel a reasonable person of the same background and in the same circumstances to perform or continue to perform labor or services or sexual activity to avoid incurring the harm.

(10) “Sexual activity” means any sex act or simulated sex act intended to arouse or gratify the sexual desire of any person. The term includes a sexually explicit performance.

(11) “Sexual contact” has the meaning provided in 45-2-101.

(12) “Sexually explicit performance” means a live, public, private, photographed, recorded, or videotaped act or simulated act intended to arouse or gratify the sexual desire of any person.

45-5-711. Child sex trafficking

Updated: 
October 25, 2024

(1) A person commits the offense of child sex trafficking by purposely or knowingly:

(a) committing the offense of sex trafficking with a child; or

(b) recruiting, transporting, transferring, harboring, receiving, providing, obtaining, isolating, maintaining, enticing, or using a child for the purposes of commercial sexual activity.

(2)(a) A person convicted of the offense of child sex trafficking shall be imprisoned in the state prison for a term of 100 years. The court may not suspend execution or defer imposition of the first 25 years of a sentence of imprisonment imposed under this subsection (2)(a) except as provided in 46-18-222(1) through (4). During the first 25 years of imprisonment, the offender is not eligible for parole. The exceptions provided in 46-18-222(5) and (6) do not apply.

(b) In addition to the sentence of imprisonment imposed under subsection (2)(a), the offender:

(i) must be fined in the amount of $400,000; and

(ii) if released after the mandatory minimum period of imprisonment, is subject to supervision by the department of corrections for the remainder of the offender’s life and shall participate in the program for continuous, satellite-based monitoring provided for in 46-23-1010.

(3) It is not a defense in a prosecution under this section:

(a) that a child consented to engage in commercial sexual activity; or

(b) that the defendant believed the child was an adult. Absolute liability, as provided in 45-2-104, is imposed.

Chapter 6. Offenses Against Property

Updated: 
October 25, 2024

Part 3. Theft and Related Offenses

Updated: 
October 25, 2024

45-6-332. Theft of identity

Updated: 
October 25, 2024

(1) A person commits the offense of theft of identity if the person purposely or knowingly obtains personal identifying information of another person and uses that information for any unlawful purpose, including to obtain or attempt to obtain credit, goods, services, financial information, or medical information in the name of the other person without the consent of the other person.

(2)

(a) A person convicted of the offense of theft of identity if no economic benefit was gained or was attempted to be gained or if an economic benefit of less than $1,500 was gained or was attempted to be gained shall be fined an amount not to exceed $500. If the victim is a minor, the offender shall be fined an amount not to exceed $3,000 or be imprisoned in the county jail for a term not to exceed 1 year, or both. A person convicted of a second offense shall be fined an amount not to exceed $500 or be imprisoned in the county jail for a term not to exceed 6 months, or both. A person convicted of a third or subsequent offense shall be fined an amount not to exceed $500 and be imprisoned in the county jail for a term of not less than 5 days or more than 1 year.

(b) A person convicted of the offense of theft of identity if an economic benefit that exceeds $1,500 and does not exceed $5,000 was gained or was attempted to be gained shall be fined an amount not to exceed $5,000 or be imprisoned in the state prison for a term not to exceed 10 years, or both. If the victim is a minor, the offender shall be fined an amount not to exceed $20,000 or be imprisoned in the state prison for a term not to exceed 20 years, or both. A person convicted of a second offense shall be fined an amount not to exceed $1,500 or be imprisoned in the state prison for a term not to exceed 5 years, or both. A person convicted of a third or subsequent offense shall be imprisoned in the state prison for a term of not less than 2 years or more than 5 years and may be fined an amount not to exceed $5,000.

(c) A person convicted of theft of identity if an economic benefit exceeding $5,000 in value was gained or attempted to be gained shall be fined an amount not to exceed $10,000 or be imprisoned in the state prison for a term not to exceed 10 years, or both.

(3) As used in this section, “personal identifying information” includes but is not limited to the name, date of birth, address, telephone number, driver’s license number, social security number or other federal government identification number, tribal identification card number, place of employment, employee identification number, mother’s maiden name, financial institution account number, credit card number, or similar identifying information relating to a person.

(4) If restitution is ordered, the court may include, as part of its determination of an amount owed, payment for any costs incurred by the victim, including attorney fees and any costs incurred in clearing the credit history or credit rating of the victim or in connection with any civil or administrative proceeding to satisfy any debt, lien, or other obligation of the victim arising as a result of the actions of the defendant.

Chapter 8. Offenses Against Public Order

Updated: 
October 25, 2024

Part 2. Offensive, Indecent, and Inhumane Conduct

Updated: 
October 25, 2024

45-8-213. Privacy in communications

Updated: 
October 25, 2024

(1) Except as provided in 69-6-104, a person commits the offense of violating privacy in communications if the person knowingly or purposely:

(a) with the purpose to terrify, intimidate, threaten, harass, or injure, communicates with a person by electronic communication and threatens to inflict injury or physical harm to the person or property of the person or makes repeated use of obscene, lewd, or profane language or repeated lewd or lascivious suggestions;

(b) uses an electronic communication to attempt to extort money or any other thing of value from a person or to disturb by repeated communications the peace, quiet, or right of privacy of a person at the place where the communications are received;

(c) records or causes to be recorded a conversation by use of a hidden electronic or mechanical device that reproduces a human conversation without the knowledge of all parties to the conversation; or

(d) with the purpose to terrify, intimidate, threaten, harass, or injure, publishes or distributes printed or electronic photographs, pictures, images, or films of an identifiable person without the consent of the person depicted that show:

(i) the visible genitals, anus, buttocks, or female breast if the nipple is exposed; or

(ii) the person depicted engaged in a real or simulated sexual act.

(2)(a) Subsection (1)(c) does not apply to:

(i) elected or appointed public officials or to public employees when the transcription or recording is done in the performance of official duty;

(ii) persons speaking at public meetings;

(iii) persons given warning of the transcription or recording. If one person provides the warning, either party may record.

(iv) a health care facility, as defined in 50-5-101, or a government agency that deals with health care if the recording is of a health care emergency telephone communication made to the facility or agency.

(b) Subsection (1)(d) does not apply to:

(i) images involving the voluntary exposure of a person’s genitals or intimate parts in public or commercial settings;

(ii) disclosures made in the public interest, including but not limited to the reporting of unlawful conduct;

(iii) disclosures made in the course of performing duties related to law enforcement, including reporting to authorities, criminal or news reporting, legal proceedings, or medical treatment; or

(iv) disclosures concerning historic, artistic, scientific, or educational materials.

(3) Except as provided in 69-6-104, a person commits the offense of violating privacy in communications if the person purposely intercepts an electronic communication. This subsection does not apply to elected or appointed public officials or to public employees when the interception is done in the performance of official duty or to persons given warning of the interception.

(4)(a) A person convicted of the offense of violating privacy in communications shall be fined an amount not to exceed $500 or be imprisoned in the county jail for a term not to exceed 6 months, or both.

(b) On a second conviction of subsection (1)(a), (1)(b), or (1)(d), a person shall be imprisoned in the county jail for a term not to exceed 1 year or be fined an amount not to exceed $1,000, or both.

(c) On a third or subsequent conviction of subsection (1)(a), (1)(b), or (1)(d), a person shall be imprisoned in the state prison for a term not to exceed 5 years or be fined an amount not to exceed $10,000, or both.

(5) Nothing in this section may be construed to impose liability on an interactive computer service for content provided by another person.

(6) As used in this section, the following definitions apply:

(a) “Electronic communication” means any transfer between persons of signs, signals, writing, images, sounds, data, or intelligence of any nature transmitted in whole or in part by a wire, radio, electromagnetic, photoelectronic, or photo-optical system.

(b) “Interactive computer service” means any information service, system, or access software provider that provides or enables computer access by multiple users to a computer server, including specifically a service or system that provides access to the internet and this type of service or system as operated or offered by a library or educational institution.

45-8-218. Deviate sexual conduct

Updated: 
October 25, 2024

(1) A person who knowingly engages in deviate sexual relations or who causes another to engage in deviate sexual relations commits the offense of deviate sexual conduct.

(2) A person convicted of the offense of deviate sexual conduct shall be imprisoned in the state prison for any term not to exceed 10 years or be fined an amount not to exceed $50,000, or both.

Part 3. Weapons

Updated: 
October 25, 2024

45-8-313. Unlawful possession of firearm by convicted person

Updated: 
October 25, 2024

(1) A person commits the offense of unlawful possession of a firearm by a convicted person if the person purposely or knowingly purchases or possesses a firearm after the person has been convicted of:

(a) a felony for which the person received an additional sentence under 46-18-221;

(b) an offense under the law of another state or of the United States that is equivalent to an offense that when committed in Montana is subject to an additional sentence under 46-18-221; or

(c) a felony for which the person is currently required to register for the sexual or violent offender registry.

(2) A person convicted of unlawful possession of a firearm by a convicted person shall be imprisoned in a state prison for not less than 2 years or more than 10 years.

(3) A person who has been issued a permit under 45-8-314 may not be convicted of a violation of this section.

45-8-327. Carrying concealed weapon while under influence

Updated: 
October 25, 2024

A person commits the offense of carrying a concealed weapon while under the influence if the person purposely or knowingly carries a concealed weapon while under the influence of an intoxicating substance. It is not a defense that the person had a valid permit to carry a concealed weapon. A person convicted of the offense shall be imprisoned in the county jail for a term not to exceed 6 months or be fined an amount not to exceed $500, or both.

45-8-328. Carrying concealed weapon in prohibited place--penalty

Updated: 
October 25, 2024

(1) Except for a person issued a permit pursuant to 45-8-321 or 45-8-312 or a person recognized pursuant to 45-8-329, a person commits the offense of carrying a concealed weapon in a prohibited place if the person purposely or knowingly carries a concealed weapon in portions of a building used for state or local government offices and related areas in the building that have been restricted.

(2) A person convicted of the offense shall be imprisoned in the county jail for a term not to exceed 6 months or fined an amount not to exceed $500, or both.

Title 46. Criminal Procedure

Updated: 
October 25, 2024

Chapter 1. General Provisions

Updated: 
October 25, 2024

Part 4. Incarceration Enhancement

Updated: 
October 25, 2024

46-1-401. Penalty enhancement--pleading, proof, and mental state requirements

Updated: 
October 25, 2024

(1) A court may not impose a penalty enhancement specified in Title 45, Title 46, or any other provision of law unless:
(a) the enhancing act, omission, or fact was charged in the information, complaint, or indictment, with a reference to the statute or statutes containing the enhancing act, omission, or fact and the penalty for the enhancing act, omission, or fact;
(b) if the case was tried before a jury, the jury unanimously found in a separate finding that the enhancing act, omission, or fact occurred beyond a reasonable doubt;
(c) if the case was tried to the court without a jury, the court finds beyond a reasonable doubt that the enhancing act, omission, or fact occurred; and
(d) a defendant who knowingly and voluntarily pleaded guilty to an offense also admitted to the enhancing act, omission, or fact.
(2) The enhancement issue may be submitted to a jury on a form separate from the verdict form or may be separately stated on the verdict form. The jury must be instructed that it is to reach a verdict on the offense charged in the information, complaint, or indictment before the jury can consider whether the enhancing act, omission, or fact occurred.
(3) An enhancing act, omission, or fact is an act, omission, or fact, whether stated in the statute defining the charged offense or stated in another statute, that is not included in the statutory definition of the elements of the charged offense and that allows or requires a sentencing court to add to, as provided by statute, a penalty provided by statute for the charged offense or to impose the death penalty instead of a statutory incarceration period provided by statute for the charged offense. Except as provided in subsection (4), the aggravating circumstances contained in 46-18-303 are enhancing acts, omissions, or facts.
(4) Use of the fact of one or more prior convictions for the same type of offense or for one or more other types of offenses to enhance the penalty for a charged offense is not subject to the requirements of this section.

Chapter 6. Arrest

Updated: 
October 25, 2024

Part 3. Warrantless Arrest and Notice to Appear

Updated: 
October 25, 2024

46-6-311. Basis for arrest without warrant -- arrest of predominant aggressor -- no contact order

Updated: 
October 25, 2024

(1) A peace officer may arrest a person when a warrant has not been issued if the officer has probable cause to believe that the person is committing an offense or that the person has committed an offense and existing circumstances require immediate arrest.

(2)(a) The summoning of a peace officer to a place of residence by a partner or family member constitutes an exigent circumstance for making an arrest. Arrest is the preferred response in partner or family member assault cases involving injury to the victim, use or threatened use of a weapon, violation of a restraining order, or other imminent danger to the victim.

(b) When a peace officer responds to a partner or family member assault complaint and if it appears that the parties were involved in mutual aggression, the officer shall evaluate the situation to determine who is the predominant aggressor. If, based on the officer’s evaluation, the officer determines that one person is the predominant aggressor, the officer may arrest only the predominant aggressor. A determination of who the predominant aggressor is must be based on but is not limited to the following considerations, regardless of who was the first aggressor:

(i) the prior history of violence between the partners or family members, if information about the prior history is available to the officer;

(ii) the relative severity of injuries received by each person;

(iii) whether an act of or threat of violence was taken in self-defense;

(iv) the relative sizes and apparent strength of each person;

(v) the apparent fear or lack of fear between the partners or family members; and

(vi) statements made by witnesses.

(3) If a judge has issued a standing order as provided in 45-5-209, a peace officer shall give a defendant charged with or arrested for partner or family member assault or a violation of 45-5-202, 45-5-213, or [section 1] if the victim is a partner or family member of the defendant, both written and verbal notice of the no contact order issued pursuant to 45-5-209. The notice must include specific conditions as ordered by the court.

Part 6. Domestic Violence Provisions

Updated: 
October 25, 2024

46-6-601. Written report when no arrest made in domestic violence situation

Updated: 
October 25, 2024

When a peace officer is called to the scene of a reported incident of domestic violence but does not make an arrest, the peace officer shall file a written report with the officer commanding the law enforcement agency employing the peace officer, setting forth the reason or reasons for the decision.

46-6-602. Notice of rights to victim in partner or family member assault

Updated: 
October 25, 2024

Whenever a peace officer arrests a person for partner or family member assault, as defined in 45-5-206, or responds to a call in which partner or family member assault is suspected, the officer, outside the presence of the offender, shall advise the victim of the availability of a shelter or other services in the community and give the victim immediate notice of any legal rights and remedies available. The notice must include furnishing the victim with a copy of the following statement:

“The city or county attorney’s office can file criminal charges against an offender if the offender committed the offense of partner or family member assault.

In addition to the criminal charges filed by the state of Montana, you are entitled to the following civil remedies:

You may go to court and file a petition requesting any of the following orders for relief:

(1) an order of protection that prohibits the offender from threatening to hurt you or hurting you;

(2) an order of protection that directs the offender to leave your home and prohibits the offender from having any contact with you;

(3) an order of protection that prevents the offender from transferring any property except in the usual course of business;

(4) an order of protection that prohibits the offender from being within 1,500 feet or other appropriate distance of you, any named family member, and your worksite or other specified place;

(5) an order of protection that gives you possession of necessary personal property;

(6) an order of protection that prohibits the offender from possessing or using the firearm used in the assault.

If you file a petition in district court, the district court may order all of the above and may award custody of your minor children to you or to the other parent. The district court may order visitation of your children between the parents. The district court may order the offender to pay support payments to you if the offender has a legal obligation to pay you support payments.

The forms that you need to obtain an order of protection are at _______________. You may call ____________ at ____________ for additional information about an order of protection.

You may file a petition in district court at _____________.

You may be eligible for restitution payments from the offender (the offender would repay you for costs that you have had to pay as a result of the assault) or for crime victims compensation payments (a fund administered by the state of Montana for innocent victims of crime). You may call ____________ at _____________ for additional information about restitution or crime victims compensation.

If a person has been found guilty of partner or family member assault against you or a partner or family member, as defined in 45-5-206, or has been found guilty of stalking or another offense involving bodily harm or the threat of bodily harm against you or a partner or family member, you may choose to keep your residential address off the list of registered voters by contacting the county election administrator at ________________.

The following agencies may be able to give you additional information or emergency help. (List telephone numbers and addresses of agencies other than shelters with secret locations and a brief summary of services that are available.)”

46-6-603. Partner or family member assault -- seizure of weapon

Updated: 
October 25, 2024
(1) A peace officer who responds to a call relating to partner or family member assault shall seize the weapon used or threatened to be used in the alleged assault.

(2) The responding officer may, as appropriate:

(a) take reasonable action necessary to provide for the safety of a victim and any other member of the household;

(b) transport or arrange for the transportation of the victim and any other member of the household to a safe location; and

(c) assist a victim and any other member of the household to remove necessary personal items.

(3) A weapon seized under this section may not be returned to the offender until acquittal or until the return is ordered by the court.

Chapter 18. Sentence and Judgment

Updated: 
October 25, 2024

Part 2. Form of Sentence

Updated: 
October 25, 2024

46-18-221. Additional sentence for offenses committed with dangerous weapon

Updated: 
October 25, 2024

(1) If the provisions of 46-1-401 have been complied with, a person who has been found guilty of any offense, other than an offense in which the use of a weapon is an element of the offense, and who, while engaged in the commission of the offense, knowingly displayed, brandished, or otherwise used a firearm, destructive device, as defined in 45-8-332(1), or other dangerous weapon shall, in addition to the punishment provided for the commission of the underlying offense, be sentenced to a term of imprisonment in the state prison of not less than 2 years or more than 10 years, except as provided in 46-18-222.

(2) If the provisions of 46-1-401 have been complied with, a person convicted of a second or subsequent offense under this section shall, in addition to the punishment provided for the commission of the present offense, be sentenced to a term of imprisonment in the state prison of not less than 4 years or more than 20 years, except as provided in 46-18-222. For the purposes of this subsection, the following persons must be considered to have been convicted of a previous offense under this section:

(a) a person who has previously been convicted of an offense, committed on a different occasion than the present offense, under 18 U.S.C. 924(c); and

(b) a person who has previously been convicted of an offense in this or another state, committed on a different occasion than the present offense, during the commission of which the person knowingly displayed, brandished, or otherwise used a firearm, destructive device, as defined in 45-8-332(1), or other dangerous weapon.

(3) The imposition or execution of the minimum sentences prescribed by this section may not be deferred or suspended, except as provided in 46-18-222.(4) An additional sentence prescribed by this section must run consecutively to the sentence provided for the offense.

Title 53. Social Services and Institutions

Updated: 
October 25, 2024

Chapter 24. Alcoholism and Drug Dependence

Updated: 
October 25, 2024

Part 1. General Provisions

Updated: 
October 25, 2024

53-24-103. Definitions

Updated: 
October 25, 2024

For purposes of this chapter, the following definitions apply:

(1) “Alcoholic” means a person who has a chronic illness or disorder of behavior characterized by repeated drinking of alcoholic beverages to the extent that it endangers the health, interpersonal relationships, or economic function of the individual or public health, welfare, or safety.

(2) “Approved private treatment facility” means a private agency that has as its function the treatment, rehabilitation, and prevention of chemical dependency, that meets the standards prescribed in 53-24-208(1), and that is approved under 53-24-208.

(3) “Approved public treatment facility” means:

(a) a treatment agency operating under the direction and control of the department as a state agency and approved under 53-24-208; or

(b) a treatment agency operating under the direction and control of a local government and approved under 53-24-208.

(4) “Chemical dependency” means the use of any chemical substance, legal or illegal, that creates behavioral or health problems, or both, resulting in operational impairment. This term includes alcoholism, drug dependency, or both, that endanger the health, interpersonal relationships, or economic functions of an individual or the public health, welfare, or safety.

(5) “Commission on accreditation of rehabilitation facilities” means the organization nationally recognized by that name that surveys rehabilitation facilities upon their requests and grants accreditation status to a rehabilitation facility that it finds meets its standards and requirements.

(6) “Department” means the department of public health and human services provided for in 2-15-2201.

(7) “Family member” is the spouse, mother, father, child, or member of the household of a chemically dependent person whose life has been affected by the actions of the chemically dependent person and who may require treatment.

(8) “Incapacitated by alcohol” means that a person, as a result of the use of alcohol, is unconscious or has judgment otherwise so impaired that the person is incapable of realizing and making a rational decision with respect to a need for treatment.

(9) “Incompetent person” means a person who has been adjudged incompetent by the district court.

(10) “Intoxicated person” means a person whose mental or physical functioning is substantially impaired as a result of the use of alcohol.

(11) “Prevention” has meaning on four levels; these are:

(a) education to provide information to the school children and general public relating to chemical dependency treatment and rehabilitative services and to reduce the consequences of life experiences acquired by contact with a chemically dependent person;

(b) early detection and recovery from the illness before lasting emotional or physical damage, or both, have occurred;

(c) if lasting emotional or physical damage, or both, have occurred, to arrest the illness before full disability has been reached;

(d) the provision of facility requirements to meet division program standards and improve public accessibility for services.

(12) “Rehabilitation facility” means a facility that is operated for the primary purpose of assisting in the rehabilitation of disabled individuals by providing comprehensive medical evaluations and services, psychological and social services, or vocational evaluation and training or any combination of these services and in which the major portion of the services is furnished within the facility.

(13) “Treatment” means the broad range of emergency, outpatient, intermediate, and inpatient services and care, including diagnostic evaluation, medical, psychiatric, psychological, and social service care, vocational rehabilitation, and career counseling, which may be extended to chemically dependent persons, intoxicated persons, and family members.