Montana HB302 revises punitive damages laws, requiring briefing and findings before a judge grants a motion to amend, and mandates an evidentiary.

Montana HB302 revises the state's punitive damages laws and procedures. It requires parties to submit affidavits and documentation supporting a claim for punitive damages before a judge may grant a motion to amend. If requested, an evidentiary hearing must be held before the close of discovery. The bill also mandates that the judge clearly state the reasons for making the award in damages and that the prevailing party provide written notice of the judgment to the state through the attorney general.

Montana HB302 revises punitive damages laws, requiring briefing and findings before a judge grants a motion to amend, and mandates an evidentiary.

Montana HB302 revises the state's punitive damages laws and procedures. It requires parties to submit affidavits and documentation supporting a claim for punitive damages before a judge may grant a motion to amend. If requested, an evidentiary hearing must be held before the close of discovery. The bill also mandates that the judge clearly state the reasons for making the award in damages and that the prevailing party provide written notice of the judgment to the state through the attorney general.