Montana § 40-7-202 - Exclusive, Continuing Jurisdiction
Full text of Montana Montana Code Annotated § 40-7-202 — Exclusive, Continuing Jurisdiction, with citation guidance and answers to common questions.
§ 40-7-202. Exclusive, Continuing Jurisdiction
Exclusive, continuing jurisdiction. (1) Except as otherwise provided in 40-7-204 , a court of this state that has made a child custody determination consistent with 40-7-201 or 40-7-203 has exclusive, continuing jurisdiction over the determination until: (a) a court of this state determines that neither the child, the child and one parent, nor the child and a person acting as a parent have a significant connection with this state and that substantial evidence is no longer available in this state concerning the child's care, protection, training, and personal relationships; or (b) a court of this state or a court of another state determines that neither the child, a parent, nor any person acting as a parent presently resides in this state. (2) A court of this state that has exclusive, continuing jurisdiction under this section may decline to exercise jurisdiction if the court determines that it is an inconvenient forum under 40-7-108 . (3) A court of this state that has made a child custody determination and does not have exclusive, continuing jurisdiction under this section may modify that determination only if it has jurisdiction to make an initial determination under 40-7-201 .
Source: official Montana text · Last verified 2026-08-27
Frequently Asked Questions About Montana § 40-7-202
What does Montana Code Annotated § 40-7-202 cover?
Section 40-7-202 ("Exclusive, Continuing 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 § 40-7-202?
A common citation format is "Montana Code Annotated § 40-7-202" (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 § 40-7-202 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.