Montana § 71-3-401 - Who May Have Lien -- Priority

Full text of Montana Montana Code Annotated § 71-3-401 — Who May Have Lien -- Priority, with citation guidance and answers to common questions.

§ 71-3-401. Who May Have Lien -- Priority

Who may have lien -- priority. (1) A person who performs services for another in the capacity of a farm or ranch laborer has a lien on all crops of every kind grown, raised, or harvested by the person for whom the services were performed during that time as security for the payment of any wages due or owing to the person for services performed. (2) The lien has priority over all other liens, chattel mortgages, or encumbrances except feed sufficient for 3 months for 1 horse, 2 cows and their calves, 4 hogs, and 50 domestic fowls and seed grain and threshers' liens. The wages for which a lien may be claimed may not be in excess of $1,000 or for a period of time exceeding 60 days preceding the date of filing the lien. If a person without cause quits the employment before the expiration of the time for which the person is employed, the person is not entitled to a lien as provided in this part. (3) If several persons have or obtain liens under the provisions of this part against property of the same employer, they have no priority among themselves but all must be paid pro rata from the proceeds of any foreclosure sale according to the provisions of this part.

Source: official Montana text · Last verified 2026-08-27

Frequently Asked Questions About Montana § 71-3-401

What does Montana Code Annotated § 71-3-401 cover?

Section 71-3-401 ("Who May Have Lien -- Priority") 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 § 71-3-401?

A common citation format is "Montana Code Annotated § 71-3-401" (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 § 71-3-401 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.