This section is for people who are not incarcerated (not detained or otherwise held in custody in a jail, prison, or other detention facility) and who are filing civil cases without a lawyer.
If you are incarcerated, see the section on incarcerated-specific resources and information. This page provides an overview of the case filing process, filing considerations to keep in mind and a list of helpful links.
The District of Montana has developed a resource to help pro se people navigate the process of filing and pursuing a civil case without a lawyer. The Pro Se Guide provides a comprehensive review of the process from filing through trial and appeal. View and download the guide here:
Guide for Unrepresented Parties - Instructions for Filing a Civil Action on Your Own Behalf
Overview of the Case Filing Process
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In Person: Documents may be delivered in person to the Clerk of Court's office in Billings, Butte, Great Falls, or Missoula. The Helena office does not accept filings over the counter.
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By Mail: Documents may be mailed to the Clerk of Court’s office in the Billings, Butte, Great Falls, Helena, or Missoula.
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Email: Initial pleadings (case filings and supporting documents) may be emailed to mtd_prosecomplaints@mtd.uscourts.gov. This includes new complaints and motions to proceed in forma pauperis). NOTE - ANY DOCUMENT SENT TO THIS EMAIL OTHER THAN INITIAL PLEADINGS WILL NOT BE FILED.
You may register to file your documents electronically in CM/ECF. This will allow you to receive and view via email everything that is filed in your case by you, the judge, or any other parties in your case. By registering for electronic filing, you waive your right to receive service of documents by first class mail. The Clerk of Court reserves the right to revoke or suspend the electronic filing privilege of any electronic filer who fails to comply with the Federal Rules of Civil Procedure, Local Rules, and the Guide to Electronic Filing.
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Form to register for e-filing: Pro Se E-Filing Registration Form (PDF). This form allows you to register to file documents electronically and to receive notice by email of documents that are filed in your case. You must submit this form via email.
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Form to cancel your e-filing request: Pro Se Election to Cancel E-Filing and Electronic Service. This form allows you to cancel your request to file documents electronically and/or to receive email notice of documents filed in your case. You must submit a separate form for each case in which you wish to cancel your request to e-file. You may submit this form via email or mail.
If you want to file your documents in person or via the mail, you may still consent to receive the documents filed in your case via email. To do so, complete and return the Consent to Electronic Service form to the Clerk of United States District Court, District of Montana. By consenting to electronic service, you waive your right to receive service of documents by first class mail.
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Social Security Numbers.
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Names of minor children (under age 18).
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Dates of birth, Taxpayer Identification Numbers.
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Financial account numbers (includes bank account numbers).