Montana § 53-21-144 - Rights Concerning Photographs
Full text of Montana Montana Code Annotated § 53-21-144 — Rights Concerning Photographs, with citation guidance and answers to common questions.
§ 53-21-144. Rights Concerning Photographs
Rights concerning photographs. (1) A person admitted to a mental health facility may be photographed for the clinical or administrative purposes of the facility. The photographs are confidential. Photographs may be released to a law enforcement agency when needed to aid in the search for a person who has left a facility without authorization from the facility's medical staff and when it is determined that the person is a self-threat or self-danger or a threat or danger to others at the time that the person left the facility. A law enforcement agency may not subsequently release photographs to the public or other persons unless authorized by a court order. (2) Other nonmedical photographs may not be taken or used without consent of the patient or, if applicable, the patient's legal guardian or without a court order.
Source: official Montana text · Last verified 2026-08-27
Frequently Asked Questions About Montana § 53-21-144
What does Montana Code Annotated § 53-21-144 cover?
Section 53-21-144 ("Rights Concerning Photographs") 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 § 53-21-144?
A common citation format is "Montana Code Annotated § 53-21-144" (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 § 53-21-144 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.