Montana § 45-8-215 - Desecration Of Flags
Full text of Montana Montana Code Annotated § 45-8-215 — Desecration Of Flags, with citation guidance and answers to common questions.
§ 45-8-215. Desecration Of Flags
Desecration of flags. (1) In this section, the term "flag" means anything that is or purports to be the official flag of the United States, the United States shield, the United States coat of arms, the Montana state flag, or a copy, picture, or representation of any of the described articles. (2) A person commits the offense of desecration of flags if the person purposely or knowingly: (a) publicly mutilates, defiles, or casts contempt upon the flag; (b) places on or attaches to the flag any work, mark, design, or advertisement not properly a part of the flag or exposes to public view a flag so altered; (c) manufactures or exposes to public view an article of merchandise or a wrapper or receptacle for merchandise upon which the flag is depicted; or (d) uses the flag for commercial advertising purposes. (3) A person convicted of the offense of desecration of flags shall be imprisoned in the state prison for any term not to exceed 10 years or be fined an amount not to exceed $50,000, or both. (4) This section does not apply to flags depicted on written or printed documents or periodicals or on stationery, ornaments, pictures, or jewelry if there are not unauthorized words or designs on the flags and if the flag is not connected with any advertisement.
Source: official Montana text · Last verified 2026-08-27
Frequently Asked Questions About Montana § 45-8-215
What does Montana Code Annotated § 45-8-215 cover?
Section 45-8-215 ("Desecration Of Flags") is part of the Montana Code Annotated, the codified statutory law of Montana. It sets out the legal rule or procedure described in the text above. Statutes are amended regularly, so always verify against the official source.
How do I cite Montana § 45-8-215?
A common citation format is "Montana Code Annotated § 45-8-215" (Montana). Legal writing may require the code abbreviation, section number, and year or edition. Match the style required by your court, professor, or publisher.
Is this the official text of Montana law?
No. This page is for research and education and may not include the most recent amendments. For official current law, check the Montana official source linked on this page or consult a licensed Montana attorney.
How does Montana § 45-8-215 apply to my situation?
Statutes are interpreted in context, and application depends on your specific facts. Only a licensed attorney in Montana can advise on how this section applies to you. Contact your state or local bar association for a referral.
Sources & Verification
Not legal advice. Verify against the official source and consult a licensed attorney in Montana.