Montana § 13-28-401 - Suit To Determine Validity And Constitutionality Of Petition And Proposed Action

Full text of Montana Montana Code Annotated § 13-28-401 — Suit To Determine Validity And Constitutionality Of Petition And Proposed Action, with citation guidance and answers to common questions.

§ 13-28-401. Suit To Determine Validity And Constitutionality Of Petition And Proposed Action

Suit to determine validity and constitutionality of petition and proposed action. (1) The governing body of the local government may direct that a suit be brought in district court by the local government to determine whether the proposed action is valid and constitutional. The suit must be initiated within 14 days of the date a petition is approved as to form under 13-28-201 . (2) An action brought under this section takes precedence over other cases and matters in the district court. The court shall render a decision as soon as possible as to whether the proposed action is valid and constitutional. (3) If the defendant prevails, the defendant is entitled to be reimbursed by the local government for costs and reasonable attorney fees incurred. (4) The 90-day period during which petition signatures must be collected under 13-28-207 begins on the date of the court order resolving the suit.

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

Frequently Asked Questions About Montana § 13-28-401

What does Montana Code Annotated § 13-28-401 cover?

Section 13-28-401 ("Suit To Determine Validity And Constitutionality Of Petition And Proposed Action") 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 § 13-28-401?

A common citation format is "Montana Code Annotated § 13-28-401" (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 § 13-28-401 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.