Montana Laws and Legal Penalties
Comprehensive legal reference for Montana. Browse DUI laws, drug possession penalties, theft charges, statutes of limitations, and more. All information is sourced from public state statutes.
Note: This information is for general educational purposes only. Laws change frequently. Always consult a licensed Montana attorney for advice specific to your situation.
Montana Quick Facts
- State Capital: Helena
- Region: West
- DUI BAC Limit: 0.08%
- Marijuana Status: Legal (recreational)
- Felony Theft Threshold: $1,500+
- Murder SOL: None
Montana DUI Laws
| Offense | Penalties |
|---|---|
| First Offense DUI | 24 hours–6 months jail, $300–$1,000 fine, 6-month suspension |
| Second Offense DUI | 7 days–1 year, $600–$2,000 fine, 1-year suspension |
| Felony DUI Threshold | 3rd offense |
| Legal BAC Limit | 0.08% |
Montana requires addiction counseling for repeat offenders
Montana Marijuana Laws
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Legal Status | Legal (recreational) |
| Medical Program | Yes |
| Recreational Use | Yes |
| Small Amount Penalty | Legal (up to 1 oz) |
| Large Amount Penalty | Over 1 oz: civil infraction |
Montana legalized recreational marijuana in 2020
Montana Theft Penalties
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Misdemeanor Threshold | Under $1,500 |
| Felony Threshold | $1,500+ or more |
| Minimum Sentence | Up to 6 months |
| Maximum Sentence | Up to 10 years (felony theft) |
Montana theft valued by amount stolen
Montana Statutes of Limitations
| Crime Type | Time Limit |
|---|---|
| Murder | None |
| Rape / Sexual Assault | None |
| Felony (General) | 5 years |
| Misdemeanor | 1 year |
| Fraud | 5 years |
| Theft | 5 years |
| DUI / DWI | 1 year |
| Assault | 5 years |
Montana capital offense or life imprisonment — no SOL