Stillwater 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 Stillwater County District Court is the trial court of general jurisdiction in Montana Judicial District 22, handling felonies, civil cases above the limited-jurisdiction limit, family law, probate, and youth matters.
| Field | Details |
|---|---|
| Court Name | Clerk of District Court, Stillwater County (Montana Judicial District 22) |
| Main Address | Columbus, MT 59019. Call 406-322-8030 for the street address, or check the Montana Court Locator. |
| Main Phone | 406-322-8030 |
| Website | courts.mt.gov (Montana Judicial Branch) |
| Courthouse Locations | 1 (Columbus) |
| Handles | Felonies, civil cases above the limited-jurisdiction limit, family law, probate, youth matters, and appeals from lower courts |
| Does NOT Handle | Misdemeanors and traffic (Justice or City Court), city ordinance violations (City or Municipal Court), federal cases (U.S. District Court for Montana), parking tickets (issuing agency) |
| Online Case Search | MTCourts.org (search by name) |
| Criminal Records Requests | Clerk of District Court, 406-322-8030 |
| Pay Traffic Tickets Online | citepayusa.com (statewide Montana court payment site, not county-specific) |
How to Search Stillwater County Court Records
Have the person's full name, the case number if you know it, and approximate dates ready before you search. Stillwater County District Court records are kept by the Clerk of District Court in Columbus.
Online
Go to MTCourts.org and search by name or case number.
Check the case status and party names in the results.
Call the clerk to confirm details before you rely on them.
Best for: Quick case status lookups
In Person
Go to the Clerk of District Court in Columbus, Montana.
Bring the case number and party names if you have them.
Call 406-322-8030 to confirm which records the clerk holds.
Best for: Copies and records not available online
By Phone
Call the Clerk of District Court at 406-322-8030.
Ask which records the clerk can search or copy for you.
Have the case number and party names ready for the call.
Best for: Confirming a case or asking about copies
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
Stillwater County Court Statistics (CY 2024)
Stillwater County courts handled an estimated 474 new cases in CY 2024 and disposed of an estimated 460. The estimate scales Montana statewide totals by the county's share of state population.
~474
Total filings in CY 2024
~460
Total dispositions in CY 2024
~474
Filings per judicial position (1 estimated positions)
~+1.9%
Change in total filings vs CY 2023
| Metric | CY 2024 | CY 2023 | Change |
|---|---|---|---|
| Total Filings | ~474 | ~465 | ~+1.9% |
| Total Dispositions | ~460 | ~451 | ~+2.0% |
| Criminal Filings | ~115 | ~113 | ~+1.8% |
| Civil Filings | ~162 | ~159 | ~+1.9% |
| Family Law Filings | ~83 | ~81 | ~+2.5% |
| Probate Filings | ~40 | ~40 | ~+0.0% |
| Mental Health Filings | ~8 | ~8 | ~+0.0% |
| Juvenile Filings | ~20 | ~20 | ~+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 Stillwater County's 0.83% share of the state population.
How Have Court Filings Changed in Stillwater County?
Estimated total filings in Stillwater 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 | ~474 | ~460 | ~+1.9% |
| CY 2023 | ~465 | ~451 | ~+1.3% |
| CY 2022 | ~459 | ~445 | ~+1.3% |
| CY 2021 | ~453 | ~439 | ~+3.0% |
| CY 2020 | ~440 | ~427 | ~+3.0% |
Estimated filings changed +7.7% between CY 2020 and CY 2024, from 440 to 474. The largest annual change was +3.0% in CY 2021. The latest change of +1.9% reflects statewide Montana trends. Figures marked with ~ are estimates: Montana statewide figures scaled by Stillwater County's 0.83% share of the state population.
What Types of Cases Are Filed in Stillwater County?
The Montana District Court heard 340 new and reopened filings from Stillwater County in 2024 across all case types. The published county figure is a single total, so shares and changes by case type are not shown.
| Case Type | What the District Court Hears |
|---|---|
| Abuse and neglect | Child abuse and neglect proceedings |
| Adoption | Adoption cases |
| Civil | Civil cases |
| Commitment | Commitment cases |
| Criminal | Criminal cases, including felonies |
| Developmental disability | Developmental disability cases |
| Domestic relations | Divorce, custody, and related family cases |
| Guardian conservator | Guardianship and conservatorship cases |
| Investigative subpoena and search warrant | Investigative subpoenas and search warrants |
| Juvenile | Youth cases |
| Paternity | Paternity cases |
| Probate | Estate and probate cases |
The data used here does not identify a fastest-growing or fastest-falling case type for this county.
How Does Stillwater County Compare With Montana Overall?
Stillwater County is estimated to account for about 0.83% of the 57,082 cases filed in Montana courts in CY 2024.
| Metric | Stillwater County | Montana | Comparison |
|---|---|---|---|
| Total filings | ~474 | 57,082 | ~0.83% of statewide filings |
| YoY change in filings | ~+1.9% | +2.0% | Same as state (estimate) |
| Filings per judicial position | ~474 | 1,019 | Estimated at the state level |
| Dispositions per judicial position equivalent | ~460 | 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 Stillwater County's 0.83% share of the state population.
Stillwater County Crime Statistics (2024)
These figures are Montana statewide offense counts reported to the FBI, not totals for Stillwater County, and county crime counts are not available in the data used here. Agency reporting may be incomplete, so they are not complete statewide totals.
4,863
Violent crimes reported statewide in 2024
18,745
Property crimes reported statewide in 2024
427.6
Statewide violent crime rate per 100K (population 1,137,233)
-9.4%
Change in total violent and property crimes statewide vs 2023 (26,052)
| 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 rates are not available here. Statewide, Montana's 2024 violent crime rate is 427.6 per 100K and its property crime rate is 1648.3 per 100K. Property crimes include larceny-theft and arson, which are not shown separately.
Stillwater County Courthouse Locations
Stillwater County has one listed Clerk of District Court location, in Columbus. Check your notice or case paperwork to confirm which court and courtroom apply before you go.
| Courthouse | Address | Phone | Verified Services |
|---|---|---|---|
| Clerk of District Court, Stillwater County | Columbus, MT 59019 (street address not listed; see the Montana Court Locator) | 406-322-8030 | See location page |
Which Court Handles Your Case in Stillwater County?
Montana's unified court system divides cases among District Courts, Justice Courts, and City or Municipal Courts, so the right court depends on the case type and where it started. Federal cases go to the U.S. District Court for Montana, not to a county court.
| Your Situation | Go To | Key Details |
|---|---|---|
| Traffic ticket | Justice Court or City Court, depending on the city or area that issued the ticket | Traffic citations go to these courts, not to District Court. |
| Parking ticket | The city or agency that issued the ticket | Parking tickets are not handled by the court. |
| Misdemeanor | Justice Court (City Court for city ordinance violations) | Justice Courts hear misdemeanors. |
| Felony | District Court, Clerk of District Court in Columbus | Felonies are tried in District Court, and preliminary felony hearings are held in Justice Court. |
| DUI | Justice Court or City Court for misdemeanor DUI; District Court for felony DUI | Check the charge on your paperwork to confirm the court. |
| Domestic violence | Justice or City Court for misdemeanors; District Court for felonies | Check the charge on your paperwork to find the right court. |
| Civil lawsuit | District Court above the limited-jurisdiction limit; Justice Court up to that limit | Ask the clerk which court applies to your claim amount. |
| Small claims | Justice Court | Small claims are heard in Justice Court. |
| Eviction | Justice Court | Justice Courts hear justice civil cases. |
| Divorce | District Court | Family law cases, including divorce, are heard in District Court. |
| Child custody or support | District Court | Family law cases, including custody and support, are heard in District Court. |
| Probate or estate | District Court | Probate matters are heard in District Court. |
| Juvenile case | District Court | Youth matters are heard in District Court. |
| Appeal | District Court for appeals from Justice or City Court; Montana Supreme Court for appeals from District Court | The Montana Supreme Court is the court of last resort. |
Are Stillwater County Court Records Public?
Yes, most Stillwater County court records are public, with exceptions set by Montana law and court rules. Article II, Section 9 of the Montana Constitution gives the public a right to examine documents of public bodies, subject to privacy limits, and the Montana Rules for Access to Court Records govern how courts handle access.
Public records
Most District Court case files are open to the public, and the Clerk of District Court keeps them. Justice and City Courts keep their own records.
Restricted or confidential records
Juvenile, sealed, expunged, adoption, mental health, and protective-order-restricted records are not publicly available, and some records require a court order.
Online access
Search by name on MTCourts.org to find case information. Online results are leads, not official court records, and not every document is online.
In-person access
Visit or call the Clerk of District Court in Columbus at 406-322-8030 to view or request copies.
Fees
The data used here does not state fees for these records. Ask the clerk before you request copies.
How to Search Stillwater County Court Records Online
Use MTCourts.org and the Clerk of District Court to find Stillwater County cases, and ask the clerk for documents that are not online.
- Identify the case type, such as criminal, traffic, civil, small claims, family law, probate, or juvenile.
- Go to MTCourts.org for a statewide name search, or call the Clerk of District Court at 406-322-8030 for District Court cases.
- Search by name or case number and note the case number from the results.
- Review the case details and confirm them with the court.
- Call the Clerk of District Court at 406-322-8030 to request documents that are not online.
| Case Type | Where to Search | What You'll Find | Limits |
|---|---|---|---|
| Criminal | MTCourts.org; Clerk of District Court at 406-322-8030 | Case information for District Court matters | Full documents may require the clerk |
| Traffic | The Justice or City Court that issued the ticket | Case information from that court | Not in the District Court records; call that court to confirm |
| Civil | MTCourts.org; Clerk of District Court at 406-322-8030 | Case information for District Court matters | Documents may require the clerk |
| Small claims | Justice Court | Case information from that court | Call the Justice Court to confirm |
| Family law | MTCourts.org; Clerk of District Court at 406-322-8030 | Case information for divorce, custody, and support matters | Confidential details are restricted |
| Probate | Clerk of District Court at 406-322-8030 | Probate case information through the clerk | Confirm access with the clerk |
| Juvenile | Clerk of District Court at 406-322-8030 | Case information only through the clerk | Juvenile records are confidential and not publicly searchable |
How to Pay Fines & Citations in Stillwater County
Traffic citations, criminal fines, and other court payments are made through the court that handles the case, and Montana also offers a statewide online payment site for citations.
- Online: Pay citations at citepayusa.com, the statewide Montana court payment site, which is not specific to Stillwater County.
- In person: Pay at the court that issued your citation, or at the Clerk of District Court in Columbus for District Court matters.
- By phone: Call the Clerk of District Court at 406-322-8030, or the court that issued the citation, to confirm how to pay.
Parking tickets are handled by the city or agency that issued them, not by the court.
Stillwater County Court Records FAQ
How do I search Stillwater County court records?
Search by name on MTCourts.org for leads, or call the Clerk of District Court at 406-322-8030 for District Court records.
Are Stillwater County court records public?
Most are, under Montana's Constitution 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 406-322-8030 with the person's name and approximate dates.
How do I find a court date?
Check your citation or notice first, then call the court that issued it or the Clerk of District Court at 406-322-8030.
How do I pay a traffic ticket?
Pay at citepayusa.com, the statewide Montana payment site for citations, or call the court that issued the ticket.
How many cases are filed in Stillwater County each year?
The District Court recorded 340 new and reopened filings in 2024, up 7.3% from 317 in 2023.
What is the most common case type in Stillwater County?
The data used here gives only the county's total District Court filings, not counts by case type, so a most common type cannot be named.
Is crime in Stillwater County rising or falling?
County crime counts are not available here. Statewide, violent crimes fell 4.3% and property crimes fell 10.6% from 2023 to 2024.
Courts in the County
Stillwater County District CourtMore Info
| Address: | 400 N. 3rd Ave PO Box 367, Columbus, MT, 59019 |
| Phone Number: | 406-322-8030 |
| Website: | https://www.stillwatercountymt.gov/department/clerk-of-district-court/ |
Useful Links
- Montana Judicial Branch - The official site for Montana's court system offers comprehensive information about state courts and judicial processes.
- Clerk of the Montana Supreme Court - Provides resources on court records, filing procedures, and legal forms for statewide applications.
- Stillwater County Courts - Detailed information on local courts within Stillwater County, including contact details and services provided.
- Montana Court Locator - A useful tool to find local courts by city or county across Montana, including contact information for each.
- Montana Legal Services Association - Offers legal aid and resources, helping individuals navigate the legal system with professional support and guidance.
- Montana Courts - Public Access - Access court records, case histories, court rulings, and other public documents available within Montana's judicial system.
- Montana Department of Justice - Official site providing information on law enforcement, victim services, consumer protection, and more legal resources in Montana.
- Montana Public Access Portal - A gateway to public access to court documents and records managed by the state to ensure transparency.
- Montana Crime Control & Courts Integration - Aimed at improving the integration of court systems and public safety mechanisms throughout Montana.
- State of Montana Contact Directory - Courts - Directory listing detailed contact information for court departments and services across Montana.
- Montana Association of Counties - Stillwater County - Offers information on county administration and services, connecting residents with local government resources.
- Montana State Law Library - Provides comprehensive legal resources, research tools, and library services to residents and legal professionals.
- National Center for State Courts - Offers a wealth of court information and resources tailored to the jurisdictional needs of state courts, including Montana.
- Montana Department of Transportation - While focused on transportation, provides access to traffic court information and records within the state.
- Montana Legal Services Help - Offers free access to legal advice, guidance, and representation for individuals in need across the state.
- USA.gov - State, Local, and Tribal Governments - Access to governmental resources, including legal and court services specific to each state, including Montana.
- United States Courts - National judiciary site providing general information about the federal courts, resources, and nationwide legal services.
- Stillwater County Public Records - Specialized database to access public records such as court documents, property records, and other public data.
- Montana Public Court Records Search - Online tool for searching international records, case filings, and other legal documents held by Montana courts.
- University of Montana School of Law Resources - An educational hub offering legal resources, study materials, and research tools for Montana's legal landscape.
Table of Contents
- Stillwater County, Courts and Public Records
- How to Search Stillwater County Court Records
- Stillwater County Court Statistics (CY 2024)
- How Have Court Filings Changed in Stillwater County?
- What Types of Cases Are Filed in Stillwater County?
- How Does Stillwater County Compare With Montana Overall?
- Stillwater County Crime Statistics (2024)
- Stillwater County Courthouse Locations
- Which Court Handles Your Case in Stillwater County?
- Are Stillwater County Court Records Public?
- How to Search Stillwater County Court Records Online
- How to Pay Fines & Citations in Stillwater County
- Stillwater County Court Records FAQ
- Courts in the County
- Useful Links