Montana § 46-13-401 - Dismissal At Instance Of Court Or Prosecution
Full text of Montana Montana Code Annotated § 46-13-401 — Dismissal At Instance Of Court Or Prosecution, with citation guidance and answers to common questions.
§ 46-13-401. Dismissal At Instance Of Court Or Prosecution
Dismissal at instance of court or prosecution. (1) The court may, either on its own motion or upon the application of the prosecuting attorney and in furtherance of justice, order a complaint, information, or indictment to be dismissed. However, the court may not order a dismissal of a complaint, information, or indictment, or a count contained in a complaint, information, or indictment, charging a felony, unless good cause for dismissal is shown and the reasons for the dismissal are set forth in an order entered upon the minutes. (2) After the entry of a plea upon a misdemeanor charge, the court, unless good cause to the contrary is shown, shall order the prosecution to be dismissed, with prejudice, if a defendant whose trial has not been postponed upon the defendant's motion is not brought to trial within 6 months.
Source: official Montana text · Last verified 2026-08-27
Frequently Asked Questions About Montana § 46-13-401
What does Montana Code Annotated § 46-13-401 cover?
Section 46-13-401 ("Dismissal At Instance Of Court Or Prosecution") 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 § 46-13-401?
A common citation format is "Montana Code Annotated § 46-13-401" (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 § 46-13-401 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.