Montana § 3-7-501 - Jurisdiction
Full text of Montana Montana Code Annotated § 3-7-501 — Jurisdiction, with citation guidance and answers to common questions.
§ 3-7-501. Jurisdiction
Jurisdiction. (1) The jurisdiction of each judicial district concerning the determination and interpretation of cases certified to the court under 85-2-309 or of existing water rights is exercised exclusively by it through the water division or water divisions that contain the judicial district wholly or partly. (2) A water judge may not preside over matters concerning the determination and interpretation of cases certified to the court under 85-2-309 or of existing water rights beyond the boundaries specified in 3-7-102 for the judge's division except as provided in 3-7-201 . (3) The water judge for each division shall exercise jurisdiction over all matters concerning cases certified to the court under 85-2-309 or concerning the determination and interpretation of existing water rights within the judge's division as specified in 3-7-102 that are considered filed in or transferred to a judicial district wholly or partly within the division. (4) The determination and interpretation of existing water rights includes, without limitation, the adjudication of total or partial abandonment of existing water rights occurring at any time before the entry of the final decree.
Source: official Montana text · Last verified 2026-08-27
Frequently Asked Questions About Montana § 3-7-501
What does Montana Code Annotated § 3-7-501 cover?
Section 3-7-501 ("Jurisdiction") 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 § 3-7-501?
A common citation format is "Montana Code Annotated § 3-7-501" (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 § 3-7-501 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.