Montana § 40-7-138 - Appearance And Limited Immunity

Full text of Montana Montana Code Annotated § 40-7-138 — Appearance And Limited Immunity, with citation guidance and answers to common questions.

§ 40-7-138. Appearance And Limited Immunity

Appearance and limited immunity. (1) A party to a child custody proceeding who is not subject to personal jurisdiction in this state and who is a responding party under 40-7-105 , 40-7-107 through 40-7-110 , 40-7-112 , and part 2 of this chapter, a party in a proceeding to modify a child custody determination under 40-7-105 , 40-7-107 through 40-7-110 , 40-7-112 , and part 2 of this chapter, or a petitioner in a proceeding to enforce or register a child custody determination under part 3 of this chapter may appear and participate in the proceeding without submitting to personal jurisdiction over the party for another proceeding or purpose. (2) A party is not subject to personal jurisdiction in this state solely by being physically present for the purpose of participating in a proceeding under this chapter. If a party is subject to personal jurisdiction in this state on a basis other than physical presence, the party may be served with process in this state. If a party present in this state is subject to the jurisdiction of another state, service of process allowable under the laws of that state may be accomplished in this state. (3) The immunity granted by this section does not extend to civil litigation based on acts unrelated to the participation in a proceeding under this chapter committed by an individual while present in this state.

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

Frequently Asked Questions About Montana § 40-7-138

What does Montana Code Annotated § 40-7-138 cover?

Section 40-7-138 ("Appearance And Limited Immunity") 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 § 40-7-138?

A common citation format is "Montana Code Annotated § 40-7-138" (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 § 40-7-138 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.