Montana § 45-2-302 - When Accountability Exists
Full text of Montana Montana Code Annotated § 45-2-302 — When Accountability Exists, with citation guidance and answers to common questions.
§ 45-2-302. When Accountability Exists
When accountability exists. A person is legally accountable for the conduct of another when: (1) having a mental state described by the statute defining the offense, the person causes another to perform the conduct, regardless of the legal capacity or mental state of the other person; (2) the statute defining the offense makes the person accountable; or (3) either before or during the commission of an offense with the purpose to promote or facilitate the commission, the person solicits, aids, abets, agrees, or attempts to aid the other person in the planning or commission of the offense. However, a person is not accountable if: (a) the person is a victim of the offense committed, unless the statute defining the offense provides otherwise; or (b) before the commission of the offense, the person terminates the person's effort to promote or facilitate the commission and does one of the following: (i) wholly deprives the person's prior efforts of effectiveness in the commission; (ii) gives timely warning to the proper law enforcement authorities; or (iii) otherwise makes proper effort to prevent the commission of the offense.
Frequently Asked Questions About Montana § 45-2-302
What does Montana Code Annotated § 45-2-302 cover?
Section 45-2-302 ("When Accountability Exists") 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 § 45-2-302?
A common citation format is "Montana Code Annotated § 45-2-302" (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 § 45-2-302 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.