Planning for Paternity Establishment in Montana requires a clear understanding of both mandatory government fees and discretionary service costs. In 2025, individuals pursuing this legal action typically encounter an average total investment of $3,680.
Compared to the United States national average of $5,000, legal costs in Montana are26% lower than the average.
The initial barrier to entry in the Montana court system begins with the mandatory filing fees. For Paternity Establishment, these non-refundable charges range between $207 and $253 depending on the specific county and local surcharges.
Based on verified jurisdictional data
Avg. Attorney Rate
$230/hour
Estimated Total
Disclaimer: This is a rough estimate based on Montana averages. Actual costs vary by county and specific circumstances.
Montana State Law Overview
90 days in Montana before filing
20 days from service to final decree
Montana is an equitable distribution state. The state has unique provisions for marital property and requires detailed property valuations. Montana also has specific rules for retirement account division.
The costs provided are estimates based on historical data and local fee structures. Legal fees vary by complexity and attorney experience. This site does not provide legal advice, and no attorney-client relationship is formed by using this tool.
Prepare and file the petition with the local Montana court.
Exchange of information and legal evidence between parties.
Mandatory or voluntary negotiation to reach an agreement.
Final court hearing and issuance of legal decree.
The cost of Paternity Establishment in Montana can be significantly reduced by following these strategic steps:
Compare live 2025 jurisdictional rates from neighboring states.
Localized costs can vary by county and municipal jurisdiction. Browse Paternity Establishment data for major cities across Montana:
Reviewed by Research Team
Last Verified: 2025