Watson Law Office, P.C.
101 E Main St STE C, Helena, MT 59601
Phone: (406) 586-4707
Luebeck, Hammar, McCarty & Goldwarg
200 Highland Blvd Suite 203, Bozeman, MT 59715
Phone: (406) 586-1926
Big Sky Justice, P.C.
101 River Dr Ste 200, Bozeman, MT 59715
Phone: (406) 761-1212
Holloway & Hulling PLLC
255 W Front St, Missoula, MT 59802
Phone: (406) 880-7424
Johnson Law, PLLC
251 Edelweiss Dr STE 2, Bozeman, MT 59718
Phone: (406) 241-1864
Maldonado Law, PLLC
N Higgins Ave Ste #226, Missoula, MT 59802
Phone: (406) 552-4653
Stevenson Law Office
1640 South Ave W, Missoula, MT 59801
Phone: (406) 361-7502
Gibson Perryman Attorneys at Law
115 N Broadway Suite 202, Billings, MT 59101
Phone: (406) 571-4423
Law Office of Jennifer Kaleczyc
7 W 6th Ave, Suite 4N, Helena, MT 59601
Phone: (406) 442-9349
Trailhead Law PLLC
2702 Montana Ave Ste 204, Billings, MT 59101
Phone: (406) 272-6425
Brewer Law Firm, P.L.L.C.
1700 W Koch St #9, Bozeman, MT 59715
Phone: (406) 570-6664
Immigration Law of Montana, P.C.
8400 Clark Rd, Billings, MT 59101
Phone: (406) 373-9828
Judnich Law Office
501 S Russell St, Missoula, MT 59801
Phone: (406) 721-3354
Montana Legacy Law, PLLC
178 S 2nd St, Hamilton, MT 59840
Phone: (406) 540-5316
Salo Law, PLLC
251 Edelweiss Dr, Bozeman, MT 59718
Phone: (406) 570-3808
Tipp Coburn Lockwood, P.C.
2200 Brooks St Suite B, Missoula, MT 59801
Phone: (406) 549-5186
Paul Moses II, Attorney at Law
222 E Main St, Bozeman, MT 59715
Phone: (406) 630-3032
Irving Law PLLC David L Irving Attorney
110 5th St S #110, Glasgow, MT 59230
Phone: (406) 228-2554
Netzer, Krautter & Brown, P.C.
1060 S Central Ave #2, Sidney, MT 59270
Phone: (406) 433-5511
Albers Law Criminal Defense
7 W 6th Ave #513, Helena, MT 59601
Phone: (406) 781-5214
Expungement in Montana allows individuals with eligible criminal records to clear their past and move forward with a clean slate. State laws outline who can apply, the process, and the limits of expungement to ensure that only qualifying cases are addressed fairly. Expungement rules require strict compliance with filing procedures, timelines, and eligibility based on the nature of the offense. Judges review petitions to determine if an expungement serves justice while protecting public safety. Working with an experienced expungement lawyer in Montana helps applicants navigate the process smoothly, avoid errors, and improve chances of success.
How to get a record expunged in Montana?
In Montana, you begin by filing a petition with the court in the county where the conviction occurred. The petition must outline the details of the case and demonstrate eligibility under state law. Once filed, a judge will review and may hold a hearing before making a decision on the expungement request.
Is expunging your record worth it?
Yes, expunging your record is valuable because it removes barriers to employment, housing, and education. A clean record can also improve personal reputation and access to opportunities. While the process takes time, the long-term benefits are significant for many people.
Is it better to seal or expunge your record?
Expungement clears the record completely, while sealing restricts who can see it. In Montana, expungement is usually the stronger option when available. Sealing can still be useful in cases where expungement is not legally possible.
What to say to a judge for expungement?
Be honest and respectful when addressing the judge. Explain how you have changed since the conviction and why clearing your record will help you contribute positively to society. Judges respond best to sincerity and proof of rehabilitation.
Who can still see an expunged record?
In Montana, an expunged record is removed from public access, meaning employers and landlords cannot see it. Some law enforcement agencies may still retain internal access. This limited access ensures that justice is balanced with second chances.
Can a felon get his gun rights back in Montana?
Restoring firearm rights after a felony is not automatic in Montana. It requires a separate legal process that may involve a court petition or federal approval. Consulting with an attorney is the best way to understand your options and requirements.
Does it cost money to expunge your record?
Yes, there are filing fees and possible attorney costs. Fees vary by county and case complexity. Some individuals may qualify for fee waivers if they cannot afford the costs.
How do I check if my criminal record is clear?
You can request a copy of your criminal history from the Montana Department of Justice. This will show any charges or convictions on record. After an expungement, the cleared case should no longer appear on the report.
Can you expunge a record without an attorney?
It is possible to file a petition without an attorney, but the process can be complex. Mistakes in paperwork or missing deadlines can cause delays or denials. Many people choose to hire an attorney to improve their chances of success.
What to expect at an expungement hearing?
At an expungement hearing, the judge will review your petition and may ask questions about your background and rehabilitation. The prosecutor or other interested parties can object, and you may need to respond. The judge will then decide whether to grant or deny the expungement based on Montana law.
Why would a record be expunged?
Records are expunged to give individuals a second chance by removing past mistakes from public view. Expungement recognizes rehabilitation and reduces obstacles in employment, housing, and education. It balances fairness with public safety by limiting eligibility to specific offenses and conditions.
Are felons allowed to hunt in Montana?
Felons in Montana may face restrictions on firearm use for hunting. Some can apply for rights restoration, but it requires legal action and is not guaranteed. Alternatives like bow hunting may still be allowed, depending on the circumstances.
Do records really get expunged?
Yes, once a record is expunged in Montana, it is no longer accessible to the public. However, law enforcement and courts may retain internal access for limited purposes. This ensures expungement provides meaningful relief while preserving necessary safeguards.
Do expunged records get destroyed?
Expunged records are not usually destroyed but are removed from public databases. They may still exist in sealed or restricted state archives. This ensures compliance with law while still protecting individuals from public exposure.
Official Sources
- Montana Code Annotated §46-18-110 (Expungement of Criminal Records)
- Montana Judicial Branch – Official Court Information
- Montana Department of Justice – Criminal History Records
- Montana Legal Services Association – Legal Help
- Montana Code Annotated – Title 46 Criminal Procedure
- Law Help Montana – Official Legal Aid Resources