Updated 04/11/07

The courts purpose, procedure and jurisdiction are set by statutory mandates and Montana and local rules of Court.

The City Court has jurisdiction over criminal misdemeanors, traffic citations and city ordinances, which includes dog tickets, parking tickets and curfew violations.

The Justice Court has jurisdiction over traffic citations and criminal misdemeanors punishable by a fine not exceeding $1000 or imprisonment not exceeding one year or both within the county.

Effective October 1, 1995, Section 61-5-214 M.C.A. states that a persons driver's license will be suspended upon failure to pay assessed fines, costs of restitution. That suspension will stay in effect until the Court notifies the Driver Improvement Department that a person has paid their assessed fines, cost, or restitution.

Time Pay Policy:

• A Payment must be received every thirty days.

• Minimum payments are due as follows:

There is a depositary that is available for fines 24 hours a day, seven days a week.

The Justice Court has jurisdiction over forcible entry, unlawful detainer and residential landlordtenant disputes.

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 $3000 exclusive of costs and the Defendant can be served within the County where the action is commenced. Filing Fee $20, Service Fee $35.

The Civil Court has jurisdiction over all actions arising on contracts for the recovery of money, damages, injury to person or property, and the possession of property not exceeding $7000 exclusive of costs and the Defendant can be served within the State. Filing Fee $35. Service Fee will vary for each county.

To issue Temporary Restraining Orders as provided for in 40-4-121 and Orders of Protection as provided for in Title 40, Chapter15.