MT HB116

All Montana courts must establish a consistent, predictable process for attorneys to appear remotely in court proceedings.

Public defenders may appear remotely via two-way audio-video communication for nonsubstantive hearings, including arraignments, initial appearances, bond/bail hearings, status conferences, scheduling hearings, omnibus hearings, and calendar calls.

Attorneys appearing remotely must use a camera to appear onscreen, and the technology must allow private communication between the attorney and their client.

Courts may require in-person appearance only by issuing an order with legal and factual basis for good cause at least 5 business days before the hearing; lack of available technology qualifies as good cause.