Family Law Resources

Filing for Divorce in Montana

Residency Requirements

At least one spouse must have been a Montana resident for at least 90 days before filing.

Waiting Period

20 days after service before divorce can be finalized.

Grounds

Montana is a no-fault state: irretrievable breakdown of the marriage.

Family Courts in Montana

Family law cases are heard in District Court.

Court Structure

• 56 counties


• 22 judicial districts

Standing Masters

Some districts use Standing Masters for family law matters.

Filing Fees in Montana

Fee Schedule

• Divorce filing fee: $200

Fee Waiver

Application for Fee Waiver available based on income.

Free Legal Resources in Montana

Montana Legal Services Association

• Website: mtlsa.org


• Phone: 1-800-666-6899

Online Resources

• Montana Free Legal Answers: montana.freelegalanswers.org


• Montana Law Help: montanalawhelp.org

Montana's Unique Family Law Features

Parenting Terminology

Montana uses "parenting" instead of custody to reduce conflict.

Parenting Plan Required

Detailed parenting plan mandatory in all cases with children.

Short Residency

Only 90 days residency required.

No-Fault Only

Pure no-fault state - only "irretrievable breakdown" available.