HB575

Montana HB575 revises the proceedings in which a public defender may be assigned, expanding the circumstances under which a public defender can be.

Montana HB575 revises the proceedings in which a public defender may be assigned. It expands the circumstances under which a public defender can be appointed, including for parents in proceedings to involuntarily terminate parental rights, for parents or guardians in proceedings for involuntary commitment of a developmentally disabled person, and for respondents in proceedings for involuntary commitment for a mental disorder. The bill also allows for the appointment of a public defender to serve as a member of a treatment court team. The changes are effective July 1, 2025.