Emergency Family-Law Resources in Montana
Official starting points for immediate safety, interim parenting orders, and orders of protection.
Temporary orders involving children
Montana does not promise same-day rulings on any private interim filing. Emergency hearings are limited. Use the District Court interim parenting-plan motion process (MP-610 series), and confirm the receiving court's local intake and deadlines.
A parent can request an interim parenting plan through the District Court motion process. For an immediate threat, an order of protection is a separate, faster route.
Orders of protection (MCA Title 40, Ch 15)
Montana's order of protection is filed under MCA Title 40, Chapter 15. A temporary order may be issued without prior notice for up to 20 days. A hearing is held within 20 days of issuance. After hearing, an order may continue for an appropriate period or be permanent when the statutory findings are made. Filing and service are free.
Montana child protective (CFSD)
Reports of suspected abuse or neglect go to Montana DPHHS — Child and Family Services Division (CFSD); call 911 for immediate. The CFSD Child Abuse Hotline is 1-866-820-5437 (TTY 1-866-341-8811), staffed 24/7. An unsubstantiated report does not prove it was knowingly false and does not by itself end parenting rights.
- MCA 40-15-201 — temporary order of protection
- Montana DPHHS — CFSD
- Montana Judicial Branch — domestic/protection forms
Always confirm current local forms, fees, and filing procedure with the District Court clerk handling your case.