Rosebud County, MT Courts and Public Records
- Arrest Records
- Judgments
- Bankruptcies
- DUIs & DWIs
- Felonies
- Warrants
- Jail Records
- Lien Records
- Sex Offenses
- Misdemeanors
- Criminal Records
- Federal Dockets
The Clerk of District Court in Forsyth is the county office that keeps Rosebud County District Court records. The District Court, in Judicial District 16, hears felonies, civil cases above the limited-jurisdiction limit, family law, probate, youth matters, and appeals from lower courts.
| Field | Details |
|---|---|
| Court Name | Montana District Court, Judicial District 16 (Clerk of District Court, Rosebud County) |
| Judicial District | 16 |
| Main Location | Clerk of District Court, Forsyth, MT 59327. The street address is not listed in the source; call the clerk. |
| Main Phone | 406-346-7322 |
| Website | courts.mt.gov (Montana Judicial Branch) |
| Courthouse Locations | 1 (Forsyth) |
| Handles | District Court: felonies, civil cases above the limited-jurisdiction limit, family law, probate, youth matters, and appeals from Justice and City courts |
| Does NOT Handle | Misdemeanors and traffic cases (Justice or City Court), city ordinance violations (City or Municipal Court), federal cases (U.S. District Court for Montana), water rights (Montana Water Court), workers' compensation disputes (Workers' Compensation Court), appeals of District Court decisions (Montana Supreme Court), and parking tickets (issuing city or agency) |
| Online Case Search | MTCourts.org (statewide search; call the clerk for county records not shown) |
| Criminal Records Requests | Call the Clerk of District Court at 406-346-7322 |
| Pay Traffic Tickets Online | CitePay USA Montana payment site (statewide, not county-specific) |
How to Search Rosebud County Court Records
Have the full name, case number if known, and approximate dates ready before you search. District Court records for Rosebud County are kept by the Clerk of District Court in Forsyth.
Online
Go to MTCourts.org and search by name or case number.
Review the case summary for District Court cases the portal publishes.
Confirm any copy fees with the clerk before you request documents.
Best for: Quick case status lookups
In Person
Visit the Clerk of District Court in Forsyth, MT 59327.
Bring the full name and case number if you have them.
Ask the clerk which records are on file and how to get copies.
Best for: Records and copies not online
By Phone
Call the Clerk of District Court at 406-346-7322.
Ask whether the record you need is on file and available.
Ask what the clerk needs before you visit or request copies.
Best for: Confirming a record before a visit
Search by Name on MTCourts.org
Go to MTCourts.org and enter a full name.
Search across record types without a case number.
Confirm results with the court, since they are not official court records.
Best for: Finding leads without a case number
Rosebud County Court Statistics (CY 2024)
Rosebud County courts handled an estimated 411 new cases in CY 2024 and disposed of an estimated 399. The estimate scales Montana statewide totals by the county's share of state population.
~411
Total filings in CY 2024
~399
Total dispositions in CY 2024
~411
Filings per judicial position (1 estimated positions)
~+2.0%
Change in total filings vs CY 2023
| Metric | CY 2024 | CY 2023 | Change |
|---|---|---|---|
| Total Filings | ~411 | ~403 | ~+2.0% |
| Total Dispositions | ~399 | ~391 | ~+2.0% |
| Criminal Filings | ~100 | ~98 | ~+2.0% |
| Civil Filings | ~141 | ~138 | ~+2.2% |
| Family Law Filings | ~72 | ~71 | ~+1.4% |
| Probate Filings | ~35 | ~34 | ~+2.9% |
| Mental Health Filings | ~7 | ~7 | ~+0.0% |
| Juvenile Filings | ~17 | ~17 | ~+0.0% |
| Authorized Judicial Positions | ~1 | ~1 | ~0.0% |
The largest category movement was in civil filings. Figures marked with ~ are estimates: Montana statewide figures scaled by Rosebud County's 0.72% share of the state population.
How Have Court Filings Changed in Rosebud County?
Estimated total filings in Rosebud County moved up over the last five years; dispositions are estimated at a similar level.
| Fiscal Year | Total Filings | Total Dispositions | YoY Filing Change |
|---|---|---|---|
| CY 2024 | ~411 | ~399 | ~+2.0% |
| CY 2023 | ~403 | ~391 | ~+1.3% |
| CY 2022 | ~398 | ~386 | ~+1.3% |
| CY 2021 | ~393 | ~381 | ~+2.9% |
| CY 2020 | ~382 | ~370 | ~+2.9% |
Estimated filings changed +7.6% between CY 2020 and CY 2024, from 382 to 411. The largest annual change was +2.9% in CY 2021. The latest change of +2.0% reflects statewide Montana trends. Figures marked with ~ are estimates: Montana statewide figures scaled by Rosebud County's 0.72% share of the state population.
What Types of Cases Are Filed in Rosebud County?
The District Court in Rosebud County hears the case types listed below. The 2024 state report gives one total for the county, 289 new and reopened filings, without a count for each case type, so the largest category cannot be named here.
| Case Type | How It Is Reported |
|---|---|
| Abuse and neglect | Included in the 289 county total; no separate count published here |
| Adoption | Included in the 289 county total; no separate count published here |
| Civil | Included in the 289 county total; no separate count published here |
| Commitment | Included in the 289 county total; no separate count published here |
| Criminal | Included in the 289 county total; no separate count published here |
| Developmental disability | Included in the 289 county total; no separate count published here |
| Domestic relations | Included in the 289 county total; no separate count published here |
| Guardian conservator | Included in the 289 county total; no separate count published here |
| Investigative subpoena and search warrant | Included in the 289 county total; no separate count published here |
| Juvenile | Included in the 289 county total; no separate count published here |
| Paternity | Included in the 289 county total; no separate count published here |
| Probate | Included in the 289 county total; no separate count published here |
Growth or decline by case type cannot be ranked from the figures used here.
How Does Rosebud County Compare With Montana Overall?
Rosebud County is estimated to account for about 0.72% of the 57,082 cases filed in Montana courts in CY 2024.
| Metric | Rosebud County | Montana | Comparison |
|---|---|---|---|
| Total filings | ~411 | 57,082 | ~0.72% of statewide filings |
| YoY change in filings | ~+2.0% | +2.0% | Same as state (estimate) |
| Filings per judicial position | ~411 | 1,019 | Estimated at the state level |
| Dispositions per judicial position equivalent | ~399 | 989 | Estimated at the state level |
| Criminal share of filings | ~24.3% | 24.3% | Same as state (estimate) |
| Civil share of filings | ~34.2% | 34.2% | Same as state (estimate) |
| Family law share of filings | ~17.5% | 17.5% | Same as state (estimate) |
These county values are estimates built from statewide Montana figures, so they track the state mix by design. Actual county dockets may differ. Figures marked with ~ are estimates: Montana statewide figures scaled by Rosebud County's 0.72% share of the state population.
Rosebud County Crime Statistics (2024)
These figures are Montana statewide totals of offenses reported to the FBI, not Rosebud County counts, and agency reporting may be incomplete. Statewide violent crimes fell 4.3% and property crimes fell 10.6% from 2023 to 2024.
4,863
Montana statewide violent crimes in 2024
18,745
Montana statewide property crimes in 2024 (totals include larceny-theft and arson, not shown separately)
427.6
Montana statewide violent crime rate per 100K residents, 2024
-9.4%
Change in total violent and property crimes vs 2023, statewide
| Offense | 2024 | Rate per 100K | 2023 | YoY Change |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Homicide | 33 | 2.9 | 33 | +0.0% |
| Rape | 697 | 61.3 | 665 | +4.8% |
| Robbery | 217 | 19.1 | 278 | -21.9% |
| Aggravated assault | 3,916 | 344.3 | 4,106 | -4.6% |
| Violent crimes total | 4,863 | 427.6 | 5,082 | -4.3% |
| Burglary | 1,922 | 169.0 | 1,952 | -1.5% |
| Motor vehicle theft | 1,884 | 165.7 | 2,174 | -13.3% |
| Property crimes total | 18,745 | 1648.3 | 20,970 | -10.6% |
County violent and property crime rates are not available in this section, so Rosebud County is not compared with the statewide rates of 427.6 violent and 1648.3 property crimes per 100K residents.
Rosebud County Courthouse Locations
Rosebud County has 1 District Court location, the Clerk of District Court's office in Forsyth. Check your notice or case paperwork for the court and location assigned to your case, and confirm with the clerk before you go.
| Courthouse | Address | Phone | Verified Services |
|---|---|---|---|
| Clerk of District Court, Rosebud County | Forsyth, MT 59327 (street address not listed; call the clerk) | 406-346-7322 | See location page (Montana Court Locator) |
Which Court Handles Your Case in Rosebud County?
Montana's courts form one unified state system. Justice Courts, City Courts, and District Courts each hear different case types, and federal cases go to the U.S. District Court for Montana.
| Your Situation | Go To | Key Details |
|---|---|---|
| Traffic ticket | Justice Court or City Court | Traffic citations are heard in the court for the place where the ticket was issued. |
| Parking ticket | The city or agency that issued the ticket | Parking tickets are handled by the issuing agency, not by a court. |
| Misdemeanor | Justice Court | Justice Courts hear misdemeanors; City Courts hear city ordinance violations. |
| Felony | District Court | District Court hears felonies, and Justice Court holds preliminary felony hearings. |
| DUI | District Court (felony) or Justice or City Court (misdemeanor) | The charge on your paperwork decides which court hears the case. |
| Domestic violence | Justice Court or District Court | Criminal charges follow the misdemeanor or felony route; ask the clerk about protection orders. |
| Civil lawsuit | District Court or Justice Court | District Court hears civil cases above the limited-jurisdiction limit; Justice Court hears smaller claims. |
| Small claims | Justice Court | Justice Court hears small claims cases. |
| Eviction | Justice Court | Justice Court hears landlord and tenant possession cases; confirm the filing office with the court. |
| Divorce | District Court | District Court hears family law, including divorce. |
| Child custody or support | District Court | District Court hears family law, including custody and support matters. |
| Probate or estate | District Court | District Court hears probate matters. |
| Juvenile case | District Court | District Court hears youth matters. |
| Appeal | District Court or Montana Supreme Court | District Court hears appeals from Justice and City courts; the Montana Supreme Court is the court of last resort. |
Are Rosebud County Court Records Public?
Yes, most Rosebud County court records are public, with exceptions. Article II, Section 9 of the Montana Constitution gives the public the right to examine documents, subject to privacy limits, and the Montana Rules for Access to Court Records describe how courts release records.
Public records
Most District Court case files, including filings and orders, are open to the public unless a law or court order restricts them. Justice and City court records are kept by those courts, not by the Clerk of District Court.
Restricted or confidential records
Juvenile, sealed, expunged, adoption, mental health, and protective-order-restricted records are not publicly available. Ask the clerk if you are unsure whether a record is restricted.
Online access
Go to MTCourts.org to look up case information. Not every case or document is online, and search results are not official court records.
In-person access
Visit the Clerk of District Court in Forsyth, MT 59327 to view or request records. Call 406-346-7322 first to confirm which records are on file.
Fees
This section does not list fee amounts. Ask the clerk about any copy charges before you request records.
How to Search Rosebud County Court Records Online
Use MTCourts.org to search Rosebud County cases by case type, and ask the Clerk of District Court for documents that are not online.
- Identify the case type, such as criminal, civil, family law, probate, or juvenile.
- Open MTCourts.org to search court records.
- Search by name or case number and note the case number from the results.
- Review the case details for status, parties, and scheduled dates.
- Call the Clerk of District Court at 406-346-7322 to request documents that are not online.
| Case Type | Where to Search | What You'll Find | Limits |
|---|---|---|---|
| Criminal | MTCourts.org (District Court) | Case information where published | Documents may require the clerk |
| Traffic | The Justice or City Court that issued the ticket | Contact that court directly | Traffic citations are heard in Justice or City courts |
| Civil | MTCourts.org (District Court) | Case information where published | Sealed or restricted filings are not shown |
| Small claims | The Justice Court that handles the claim | Contact that court directly | Not part of District Court records |
| Family law | MTCourts.org (District Court) | Case information where published | Confidential details are restricted |
| Probate | MTCourts.org (District Court) | Case information where published | Restricted files may require the clerk |
| Juvenile | Clerk of District Court at 406-346-7322 | Case information only through the clerk | Juvenile proceedings are confidential and not in the public portal |
How to Pay Fines & Citations in Rosebud County
Montana citations and fines can be paid through the statewide court payment site or directly with the court or clerk handling the citation.
- Online: Pay citations at the CitePay USA Montana payment site. This statewide site is not specific to Rosebud County.
- In person or by phone: Pay with the court or clerk handling the citation. For the Clerk of District Court in Forsyth, call 406-346-7322.
Parking tickets are paid to the city or agency that issued them, not to the court.
Rosebud County Court Records FAQ
How do I search Rosebud County court records?
Go to MTCourts.org to search by name or case number, or call the Clerk of District Court at 406-346-7322 for records not shown online.
Are Rosebud County court records public?
Most are, under Montana's right to know and court access rules, but juvenile, sealed, and other confidential records are restricted.
How do I find a criminal case?
Search by name on MTCourts.org or call the Clerk of District Court at 406-346-7322. Justice and City court cases must be searched with those courts.
How do I find a court date?
Check your notice or paperwork, then call the clerk at 406-346-7322 or the court handling your case.
How do I pay a traffic ticket?
Pay citations at the CitePay USA Montana payment site, or pay with the court that issued the ticket.
How many cases are filed in Rosebud County each year?
Rosebud County recorded 289 new and reopened District Court filings in 2024, compared with 303 in 2023.
What is the most common type of case?
The 2024 state report gives one District Court total for the county, not counts by case type, so the most common type cannot be named here.
Is crime in Rosebud County rising or falling?
County crime counts are not available here. Statewide, reported violent crimes fell 4.3% and property crimes fell 10.6% in 2024.
Courts in the County
Rosebud County District CourtMore Info
| Address: | 1200 Main St, Forsyth, MT, 59327 |
| Phone Number: | 406-346-7322 |
| Website: | http://rosebudcountymt.gov/departments/clerk-of-district-court/ |
Useful Links
- Montana Judicial Branch: Bringing Justice to Rosebud County with Statewide Court Information and Services - Official site for Montana courts offering comprehensive statewide court information, including case searches, rules, and court services.
- Rosebud County, Montana - Court Information and Resources for Local Residents - Provides access to local Rosebud County court resources, including hearing schedules and contact details for local court offices.
- Justia Dockets & Filings - Access to Montana Federal District Court Cases Archives - Nationwide database offering docket information and filings from Montana federal cases, useful for legal research and insights.
- Montana Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers - Defender Resources Across the State - Organization supporting criminal defense lawyers in Montana with legal updates, resources, and advocacy tools.
- Montana Judicial Branch: Information on District Courts Across the State - Details on the jurisdiction and operations of district courts throughout Montana, including judges and case handling.
- Montana Court Locator - Find Local and Statewide Courts with Ease - A tool to help you find locations and contact information for all court types within Montana.
- Montana Department of Revenue - Legal and Judicial Tax Resources - Guide to tax-related legal resources and services offered by the state of Montana, crucial for fiscal case management.
- Montana Courts Public Access - View Public Court Records Online - This portal allows users to search and view public case records and court information online.
- Montana Legal Services Association - Access to Free and Low-Cost Legal Help - Provides legal assistance to people across Montana who cannot afford it, including critical court services and guidance.
- Montana State Legislature: Legislative Information and Legal Resource Access - Legislative hub for Montana's laws, bills, and legal resources, critical for understanding legal framework and updates.
- Montana Secretary of State: Essential Business and Legal Document Services - Facilitates business registration and document processing crucial for legal case preparations and court proceedings.
- Montana Department of Administration - State Employee and Public Record Resources - Access to administrative resources, including public employee records and broad state administration guidance.
- County Health Rankings & Roadmaps: Comprehensive Overview of Rosebud County Health and Legal Implications - Offers insight into health statistics impacting legal and community outcomes in Rosebud County, MT.
- National Association for Court Management - Professional Development and Resources for Court Personnel - Association providing resources, certifications, and educational opportunities for court management professionals in Montana and nationwide.
- Montana Law Help - Self-Help Guide for Court Proceedings and Legal Documents - Assists individuals in representing themselves with a guide on legal documents and court procedures across Montana.
- ABA Free Legal Answers for Montana - Get Legal Advice from Volunteer Lawyers - A virtual legal advice portal allowing qualified individuals to ask legal questions and receive advice from volunteer attorneys.
- Legal Services Corporation: Ensuring Access to Justice in Rural Areas Like Rosebud County, MT - Provides funding and guidance for legal aid programs nationwide, supporting access to justice in rural areas like Rosebud County.
- National Association of Women Lawyers - Networking and Resources for Female Legal Professionals - Offers resources and networking opportunities for women lawyers, including those practicing in Montana courts.
- National Center for State Courts - Research and Support for Efficient Judicial Administration - Provides comprehensive research and support tools enhancing state court efficiency and administration, including Montana.
- Prairie State Legal Services - Supporting Family Law and Domestic Law Cases in Local Courts - Non-profit offering free legal aid to low-income people for family and domestic law cases within local courts across states.
Table of Contents
- Rosebud County, Courts and Public Records
- How to Search Rosebud County Court Records
- Rosebud County Court Statistics (CY 2024)
- How Have Court Filings Changed in Rosebud County?
- What Types of Cases Are Filed in Rosebud County?
- How Does Rosebud County Compare With Montana Overall?
- Rosebud County Crime Statistics (2024)
- Rosebud County Courthouse Locations
- Which Court Handles Your Case in Rosebud County?
- Are Rosebud County Court Records Public?
- How to Search Rosebud County Court Records Online
- How to Pay Fines & Citations in Rosebud County
- Rosebud County Court Records FAQ
- Courts in the County
- Useful Links