Title

What to know about the Courts and COVID-19

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By: Montana Legal Services Association (MLSA)

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What to know about the Courts and COVID-19
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What to know about the Courts and COVID-19

For up to date information about the specific court changes and procedures, visit the Local Rules on Coronavirus for District Court.

I have a court appearance but I’m worried about COVID-19 or I’m experiencing symptoms. What can I do?

If you are experiencing symptoms of COVID-19 or at high risk of getting the disease, you are encouraged to request to reschedule your appearance. You will need to file a Motion to Continue to reschedule.  For more information about how to file a motion visit the Judicial Branch website.

I have a court appearance but the courthouse is closed. What do I do?

If you are scheduled to appear in court and the courthouse is closed on the date you are supposed to appear, you need to call the clerk of court. Keep written records of when you call and what you discuss. Do not assume your appearance has changed. The clerk of court will tell you what you need to do to reschedule your appearance. You can find the phone number of the courthouse you are scheduled to appear at by visiting https://courts.mt.gov/locator.

I just received a notice for jury duty, but I’m in a high risk population for COVID-19 or I have been experiencing symptoms. Do I still have to show up?

If you think you have COVID-19 or are at high risk of contracting the disease, you are encouraged to stay home. You should contact the clerk of court and notify them that you may be sick or are at high risk of COVID-19. The clerk of court will notify you about what your responsibilities are. You can find the phone number of the courthouse you are assigned jury duty to at https://courts.mt.gov/locator.


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For more information on how to protect you and your family from COVID-19, visit:

Legal Help

If you have any questions about your rights, it is a good idea to talk to a lawyer.

  • The State Bar Lawyer Referral Service may provide you with contact information for attorneys who provide the type of assistance you are seeking, for a fee. You can contact the State Bar Lawyer Referral Service at (406) 449-6577 or montanabar.org.
  • Montana Legal Services Association (MLSA) provides free civil, non-criminal legal help to eligible clients. Learn more about how to apply for free legal help in Montana.
  • If you qualify for help from MLSA, you may be able to get free legal advice from a volunteer attorney by email using Ask Karla.

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