Montana HB116 would allow attorneys to appear remotely in court for nonsubstantive hearings.

Montana HB116 would establish a process for attorneys to appear remotely in court for nonsubstantive hearings, such as arraignments, bond hearings, and status conferences. The bill specifies that public defenders may use remote appearances for these hearings unless a court orders an in-person appearance for good cause. Good cause includes situations where the court lacks the technological resources to support remote appearances. The bill defines "appear remotely" and "nonsubstantive hearing" to clarify its provisions.

Montana HB116 would allow attorneys to appear remotely in court for nonsubstantive hearings.

Montana HB116 would establish a process for attorneys to appear remotely in court for nonsubstantive hearings, such as arraignments, bond hearings, and status conferences. The bill specifies that public defenders may use remote appearances for these hearings unless a court orders an in-person appearance for good cause. Good cause includes situations where the court lacks the technological resources to support remote appearances. The bill defines "appear remotely" and "nonsubstantive hearing" to clarify its provisions.