Criminal Defense Attorneys in Missoula, MT

Powerful Criminal Defense

When you face criminal charges in Montana, contact an experienced criminal defense attorney to fight for your rights! Whether you are facing DUI, felony, or assault criminal charges, attorney Matt Stevenson will defend you through every stage of the prosecution.

Committed Criminal Defense Representation

Facing a criminal charge can be overwhelming, but you don’t have to go through it alone.

Meet Mat Stevenson

Find Out How Our Firm Can Help

When your freedom is at risk, swift and strategic legal action is essential.

Experienced Missoula Criminal Defense Lawyers - We Serve All of Montana State Level Courts

At Stevenson Law Office, our Montana criminal defense attorneys move quickly to protect your rights. We handle everything from drug charges and assault allegations to weapons offenses and white-collar crimes. Every charge in Montana can impact your employment, housing, and reputation. Our legal team builds strong, fact-based defenses that challenge police evidence and hold the state accountable. We know how to fight back against unlawful stops, faulty warrants, and unreliable testimony.

Montana’s justice system is complex, and courts enforce strict deadlines. One missed hearing or wrong decision may close doors forever. That is why our criminal defense strategies are tailored to your specific case.

Criminal Charges in Montana Require Immediate and Strategic Criminal Defense

Criminal charges in Montana bring more than temporary disruption. They threaten your liberty, reputation, and long-term future. A guilty verdict can result in jail, fines, probation, and a permanent record. Even minor offenses often trigger harsh consequences under Montana law. If you wait too long to act, you risk losing critical defense options.

Timing matters in Montana criminal defense. Prosecutors begin building their case the moment of arrest. You need a defense strategy just as fast. Our attorneys work with urgency to respond to court deadlines and protect your rights. Unlike generic defense tactics, we create personalized plans based on your charges, evidence, and background. Whether you face charges in Yellowstone County or Flathead County, Stevenson Law Office delivers local insight and courtroom strength.

"Injustice anywhere is a threat to justice everywhere."

— Martin Luther King Jr.

DUI Charges

Defending clients against DUI charges with strategic legal guidance and experience in Montana’s criminal justice system.

Misdemeanors

Effective representation for misdemeanor charges to protect your record, rights, and long-term reputation.

Felonies

Aggressive defense for serious felony charges with a focus on reducing or dismissing penalties.

Assault Crimes

Skilled defense for complex assault-related cases, including aggravated assault, domestic violence, and assault with a deadly weapon.

Gun Charges

Protecting your Second Amendment rights against unlawful possession, use, or firearm-related criminal charges.

Drug Crimes

Strategic defense for drug charges, from simple possession to large-scale distribution and trafficking accusations.

Award Winning Montana Criminal Defense Firm

We are dedicated to defending your rights with proven expertise, unwavering integrity, and a relentless commitment to securing the best outcome for every client we serve.

Why Contact An Experienced Criminal Defense Attorney After Being Charged In Montana

If you face criminal charges in Missoula, Montana, you need more than legal help, you need powerful, proven defense for the court system you face. At Big Sky Law, we provide aggressive representation with a deep understanding of the Missoula legal landscape from the city ordinances enforced along Higgins Avenue to the felony prosecutions taking place in the Missoula County District Court.

Whether the arrest occurred on the busy campus of the University of Montana or outside of a Broadway Street venue downtown, your future requires protection now. The justice system is quick, and Missoula prosecutors are primed for conviction. The Montana Board of Crime Control gathers data that shows criminal filings and enforcement is steady in urban and rural Montana.

Philosophy & Practice Areas

Mat Stevenson approaches criminal defense from a libertarian political perspective: a belief in minimal government intrusion into individuals’ lives. He is committed to vigilant defense of constitutional rights generally, and particularly to those he represents.

We know how the Missoula courts operate, and develop strategic criminal defenses that attack weak evidence, procedural mistakes, and obtain the best results possible. From the detention facility located off Mullan Road, to the Missoula County Courthouse, we know the routes and flow of the legal process, and fight along the way.

Why DUI/DWI Charges in Montana Require Immediate Legal Defense

Criminal DUI or DWI charges in Montana bring more than temporary disruption. They threaten your liberty, reputation, and long-term future. A guilty verdict can result in jail, fines, probation, and a permanent record. Even minor offenses often trigger harsh consequences under Montana law. If you wait too long to act, you risk losing critical defense options.

First Time DUI Charges in Montana

Montana law does not excuse first-time DUI offenders from serious consequences. Even without a prior criminal history, a first offense may lead to up to six months in jail, a mandatory 90-day license suspension, fines up to $1,000, and alcohol screening and education courses. The court may also order the installation of an ignition interlock device. These penalties apply regardless of whether your arrest occurred in Billings, Missoula, or a remote part of Ravalli County.

At Stevenson Law Office, we treat every first-time DUI case as a legal emergency. Our attorneys evaluate the arrest from the first moment of police contact. We challenge whether the officer had reasonable suspicion for the stop, whether the field sobriety test was conducted properly, and whether the chemical test device was accurate and lawfully used. We often argue for a reduction in charges to reckless driving, known as a “wet reckless,” or seek eligibility for deferred prosecution programs when permitted by local courts. Our goal is to prevent the lasting damage a conviction can cause to your career, driving privileges, and future opportunities.

Repeat DUI and Escalating Penalties

Montana imposes harsh penalties on drivers with prior DUI convictions. A second offense within ten years carries mandatory jail time of at least seven days, fines between $1,200 and $2,000, and a one-year license suspension. A third offense becomes even more serious, bringing felony-level consequences, longer incarceration periods, multi-year license revocation, and mandatory alcohol treatment. Judges also have broad discretion to impose electronic monitoring and probation conditions that restrict your daily life.

Stevenson Law Office takes an aggressive approach in defending repeat DUI cases. We explore whether prior convictions can be excluded or challenged, especially if they occurred out of state or involved procedural defects. Our attorneys examine the credibility of breath and blood testing methods and seek expert testimony when necessary. We argue for rehabilitation over incarceration, explore court-approved sobriety programs, and push for treatment-based sentencing alternatives whenever possible. Our objective is to protect your liberty and mitigate the long-term impact of a repeat offense.

High BAC DUI Arrests and Persistent Offender Designation

Montana law classifies DUI arrests with a blood alcohol content (BAC) of 0.16 or greater as high-level offenses. These cases often result in a persistent drunk driver designation. This label triggers mandatory ignition interlock installation, lengthy license revocation, and enrollment in state-monitored substance abuse treatment. Courts in Montana may also order the driver to wear a SCRAM (Secure Continuous Remote Alcohol Monitor) device as a condition of pretrial release or probation.

In high BAC cases, Stevenson Law Office leaves no detail unchecked. We subpoena breathalyzer maintenance logs, calibration reports, and certification records for every officer involved. Testing devices often malfunction, especially in extreme weather or under poor maintenance conditions. Our legal team works with toxicologists to analyze blood sample handling and determine if fermentation or contamination inflated the BAC reading. A strong evidentiary challenge can result in suppression of test results or a significant reduction in charges.

Refusing a Chemical Test in a DUI Case

Under Montana’s implied consent law, refusing a blood, breath, or urine test after a DUI arrest leads to immediate penalties. The Department of Justice may suspend your license for up to six months, even before a criminal case begins. Prosecutors also use the refusal as an admission of guilt, making these cases difficult without a focused legal defense.

Stevenson Law Office builds defense strategies around procedural review. We evaluate whether officers gave a clear explanation of the consequences of refusal, as required by law. If the warning was unclear, rushed, or missing, we file motions to suppress evidence of the refusal. In some cases, we can show that the test refusal was not willful, such as when medical conditions, language barriers, or confusion prevented compliance. A properly timed challenge can protect your license and limit the state’s ability to use the refusal as evidence.

Underage DUI and Zero Tolerance Enforcement

Montana applies a zero-tolerance policy for drivers under the legal drinking age. If a driver under 21 registers a BAC of 0.02 percent or higher, prosecutors may file DUI charges even if the driver showed no signs of impairment. The consequences include license suspension, fines, alcohol education, and a permanent criminal record that may jeopardize college admissions, scholarships, or military enlistment.

At Stevenson Law Office, we defend minors and college students throughout Montana, including students from the University of Montana and Montana State University. We analyze the arrest for constitutional violations and procedural errors. Many underage DUI arrests involve questionable traffic stops, improperly conducted breath tests, or a failure to notify parents or guardians. We push for dismissals, deferred prosecution, or alternative sentencing options that focus on rehabilitation rather than punishment. Our firm aims to protect young clients from mistakes that could define their future.

Fighting Felony Charges in Montana’s Courts

Felony charges in Montana bring the most serious consequences allowed by law. These cases involve violent acts, financial crimes, drug trafficking, gun violations, and repeat offenses. A felony conviction can result in long-term incarceration, steep fines, loss of voting and firearm rights, and a permanent criminal record. Felony charges also affect employment, housing, and professional licensing.

At Stevenson Law Office, we defend clients facing felony prosecution in district courts across Montana. We handle everything from Class C property crimes to serious violent felonies punishable by decades in prison. Felony cases require early intervention and a skilled legal team. We investigate arrests, suppress unlawfully obtained evidence, challenge witnesses, and create strategies that disrupt the state’s theory of guilt. With your future at stake, we bring aggressive defense from day one.

Understanding Montana’s Felony Class System

Montana law organizes felony charges by type, severity, and sentencing guidelines. Some felonies carry fixed sentences. Others allow judges wide discretion based on aggravating or mitigating factors. Common felony charges include burglary, aggravated assault, felony DUI, criminal endangerment, and sexual assault. Repeat convictions raise the risk of mandatory minimums or enhanced penalties.

Stevenson Law Office explains the consequences of each classification in plain terms. We walk clients through the differences between deferred sentencing, suspended sentences, and prison time. Our attorneys build mitigation strategies early, including rehabilitation plans, psychological evaluations, and expert reports. In some cases, we push for reclassification of charges from felony to misdemeanor. Our goal is to reduce sentencing exposure and protect your record.

Pretrial Strategy and Motion Practice in Felony Cases

Felony defense begins long before a trial date. Strong legal motions filed early can shape the outcome. We use pretrial hearings to challenge unlawful police conduct, suppress improper evidence, and limit what the jury may hear. We also seek bond modifications to allow release from custody while awaiting court.

The Role of Evidentiary Motions in Felony Defense

Motions to suppress evidence are among the most powerful tools in felony defense. We challenge the legality of searches, detentions, and seizures. If police violated your rights under the Fourth or Fifth Amendment, we move to exclude statements, physical evidence, or entire arrests. In drug, gun, or assault cases, suppressed evidence often leaves prosecutors with no case to pursue. This forces plea negotiations or outright dismissal. Our attorneys file detailed, research-backed motions that give you the best chance at relief before trial begins.

What Happens if You’re Convicted of a Felony in Montana

Felony sentencing in Montana depends on the charge, your record, and the judge’s discretion. Sentences can include years in state prison, extended probation, mandatory restitution, and court-ordered treatment. A felony record also affects immigration status, public benefits, and gun ownership.

Our firm prepares for sentencing while building your defense. If trial is unavoidable, we bring expert witnesses, mitigation specialists, and investigators to show your side of the story. We present evidence of employment, family responsibilities, or treatment efforts. If a conviction happens, we fight for deferred sentencing, community alternatives, or sentence reductions through post-trial motions. Your defense does not end with the verdict.

Criminal Defense for Firearm Charges in Montana

Montana may have some of the most permissive gun laws in the country, but firearm-related criminal charges are still aggressively prosecuted. Whether the charge involves unlawful possession, use of a weapon in the commission of a crime, or a federal gun offense, the stakes are high. A conviction can result in prison time, permanent loss of firearm rights, and restrictions on employment or housing. Even law-abiding citizens can find themselves facing felony charges due to confusion around Montana’s complex gun statutes.

At Stevenson Law Office, we defend individuals charged with a wide range of firearm crimes throughout Montana. We handle cases involving concealed carry violations, unlawful discharge of a weapon, possession of a firearm by a prohibited person, and use of a weapon during the commission of a violent offense. Our attorneys examine the arrest, the weapon’s legal status, the reason for seizure, and whether the defendant’s constitutional rights were violated. We work to suppress unlawful evidence and resolve firearm charges through dismissal, charge reduction, or trial defense.

Unlawful Possession of a Firearm

Possessing a firearm is legal for most Montana residents, but certain people are prohibited from owning or carrying weapons under state and federal law. Individuals with felony convictions, domestic violence restraining orders, or active probation terms may face criminal charges if found with a gun. Additionally, juveniles and non-citizens face tighter restrictions and mandatory sentencing.

Our legal team first determines if law enforcement lawfully found the weapon. We challenge unlawful searches, Fourth Amendment violations, and vague probable cause. We also examine whether the accused was legally prohibited from firearm possession at the time. In some cases, we can show the weapon did not belong to our client or was found in a shared space. These details can lead to dismissal or reduction of charges.

Use of a Firearm During a Criminal Offense

If a person allegedly used or brandished a firearm while committing a separate crime, the penalties increase sharply. Montana courts impose sentence enhancements for using a gun in the commission of an assault, robbery, drug transaction, or domestic violence incident. These charges often carry mandatory minimum sentences, especially when the weapon was loaded or discharged.

Stevenson Law Office defends these high-stakes cases with a layered approach. We challenge the reliability of witness statements, the chain of custody for the weapon, and whether prosecutors can prove actual use or intent. We also examine ballistics reports and forensic evidence to determine if the gun was operable or if its presence actually escalated the alleged offense. In some cases, we push to separate the gun charge from the underlying crime to prevent sentence stacking.

Carrying Without a Permit or Violating Concealed Carry Laws

Montana allows permitless carry in many situations, but confusion around local regulations, school zones, federal buildings, and tribal lands often leads to arrest. A person legally allowed to carry under state law may still be charged with a crime if found with a gun in a restricted location or while intoxicated.

We defend clients arrested for carrying without a permit, carrying while under the influence, or violating federal firearm-free zone laws. We argue for dismissal when the defendant had a valid concealed carry permit or was in a permissible location. We also examine whether the area was properly posted or if law enforcement violated search and seizure rules. In many of these cases, the charges stem from honest misunderstandings rather than criminal intent.

Federal Firearm Offenses and Felon-in-Possession Charges

Some firearm charges fall under federal jurisdiction, especially those involving interstate transport of weapons, use during drug crimes, or felon-in-possession cases. Federal courts apply strict sentencing guidelines and often seek prison time for these offenses.

At Stevenson Law Office, we represent clients facing federal firearm indictments in Montana’s U.S. District Courts. We examine how the weapon was discovered, whether federal agents followed protocol, and whether prior convictions were eligible for enhancement. We fight to reduce sentencing exposure through plea negotiation or constitutional motions. When possible, we seek to divert cases back to state court or reduce the federal impact of the charges.

Defense Strategies for White Collar Crimes and Fraud Allegations in Montana

White collar crimes may not involve violence, but Montana courts treat them as serious threats to the public. These charges often involve allegations of dishonesty, financial harm, or abuse of trust. Prosecutors pursue white collar defendants with the same intensity they apply to violent crimes. A conviction can lead to prison time, heavy restitution, forfeiture of assets, and a criminal record that destroys your professional credibility.

At Stevenson Law Office, we defend clients accused of embezzlement, wire fraud, forgery, identity theft, public corruption, and healthcare billing fraud. Our attorneys understand the complexity of these cases. White collar investigations often rely on digital records, banking transactions, audit trails, and witness interviews. We examine every detail of the state’s timeline and break down financial records to expose flaws in the case. Whether you are a business owner, accountant, employee, or government contractor, our team fights to protect your reputation and freedom.

Embezzlement and Theft from Employers

Allegations of embezzlement involve the misappropriation of funds entrusted to someone through employment. These cases often arise when a company discovers financial discrepancies and assumes criminal intent. But not every accounting error or unexplained loss equals theft.

We defend embezzlement charges by auditing financial records, evaluating internal controls, and analyzing access logs. Many cases result from poor oversight or shared access to company systems. At Stevenson Law Office, we bring in forensic accountants to track the flow of money and identify alternate explanations. Our goal is to show lack of intent or raise enough doubt to avoid conviction.

Wire Fraud, Bank Fraud, and Online Financial Crimes

Montana residents increasingly face federal and state prosecution for digital fraud. These cases may involve emails, false invoices, fake loan applications, or impersonation schemes. Wire fraud and bank fraud often fall under federal jurisdiction, which means longer sentences and broader investigative authority.

Our attorneys begin by challenging how the investigation started and what evidence agents gathered. We examine emails, bank records, and transaction histories for inconsistencies. In many cases, innocent business owners or employees are caught in fraudulent schemes without full knowledge. We work to separate our client’s role from the broader claims and push to resolve charges before they reach trial.

Forgery and Falsifying Documents

Forgery charges apply when someone alters, creates, or presents a false document for personal gain. These include fake checks, contracts, medical notes, or state documents. Montana prosecutes forgery under strict statutes that treat even single offenses as felonies.

Our Attorneys challenge forgery cases by questioning document authenticity, chain of custody, and expert analysis methods. We also investigate whether our client signed anything under pressure or misunderstanding. Many white collar defendants face added charges like obstruction or conspiracy based on the same event. We move to sever those charges or strike unreliable statements from the record.

Identity Theft and Digital Impersonation Cases

Identity theft charges involve using another person’s personal or financial information without consent. In Montana, this includes credit card use, benefit claims, or account takeovers. These cases often arise through internet investigations or third-party tips.

We fight identity theft allegations by examining the data trail. Our team looks at device use, IP records, timestamps, and access logs. We work to prove that someone else used your device or that the activity cannot be directly linked to you. If prosecutors lack clear proof of intent or identity, we push for dismissal or charge reduction early in the case.

Criminal Defense for Domestic Violence Charges in Montana

Domestic violence charges carry life-changing consequences in Montana. Even before a trial, a single accusation can lead to restraining orders, mandatory removal from your home, restricted access to your children, and a criminal protective order. A conviction may bring jail time, probation, mandatory counseling, and a lifelong criminal record. Domestic violence charges also impact gun rights, employment, and child custody agreements. These cases often begin with little or no physical evidence and rely heavily on personal accusations.

At Stevenson Law Office, we provide immediate and strategic defense to clients accused of domestic violence across Montana. We defend against charges such as partner or family member assault (PFMA), aggravated assault, stalking, intimidation, and violating protective orders. Our legal team acts quickly to investigate the facts, collect witness statements, review police body cam footage, and analyze the timeline of events. These cases are highly emotional and often involve misunderstandings, false claims, or retaliatory accusations. We bring clarity, facts, and courtroom experience to defend your name and protect your future.

Partner or Family Member Assault (PFMA)

Montana law defines PFMA as any physical harm or credible threat of harm against a spouse, romantic partner, family member, or household resident. A first offense may be charged as a misdemeanor, carrying up to one year in jail and fines up to $1,000. A second or third offense, or one involving a weapon or serious injury, may result in felony charges and prison time.

Our attorneys evaluate whether law enforcement made a lawful arrest, whether the victim had injuries consistent with the allegations, and whether prior incidents are being used unfairly. We often uncover evidence that contradicts the police report or raises doubt about the accuser’s credibility. In some cases, we negotiate for counseling-based alternatives or deferred sentencing programs that can lead to dismissal upon successful completion.

False Allegations and Retaliatory Accusations

Domestic violence charges are sometimes used as leverage during child custody battles, divorce proceedings, or relationship breakdowns. A single accusation can trigger an arrest without supporting evidence. In these cases, our attorneys act fast to uncover motives behind the accusation. We subpoena text messages, social media posts, call logs, and third-party witness testimony to reconstruct the events and prove your innocence.

Stevenson Law Office builds strong defense narratives to show that the accused acted in self-defense or was falsely accused. We also pursue protective order modifications when necessary to allow clients to return to their homes or see their children. False allegations demand a fast and aggressive legal response. We deliver that at every stage.

Protection Order Violations and Collateral Penalties

Violating a no-contact or protective order in Montana is a criminal offense that often leads to separate charges. This is true regardless of the original case’s outcome. Even accidental contact such as replying to a message or running into the accuser in public can lead to arrest. Courts do not accept ignorance or miscommunication as a defense without supporting evidence.

Our legal team defends clients accused of violating protective orders by examining how the alleged contact occurred. We investigate whether the contact was initiated by the alleged victim, whether the client understood the restrictions, and whether law enforcement violated procedural rules in making the arrest. We fight to prevent additional penalties and keep the original case from escalating due to technical violations.

Criminal Defense for Violent Crimes in Montana

Violent crime charges are among the most serious offenses in Montana. These charges carry severe penalties, including long-term incarceration, high fines, and felony records that follow you for life. Convictions often limit housing options, block job opportunities, and damage personal relationships. Montana courts show little leniency in violent cases. Prosecutors often pursue the maximum sentence from the start.

At Stevenson Law Office, we represent clients charged with violent crimes across the state. We defend against allegations of assault, battery, robbery, manslaughter, attempted murder, and homicide. Our attorneys build strong defenses based on the facts, witness credibility, and forensic evidence. We fight to prevent overcharging, expose inconsistencies, and make sure juries hear your side of the story. Whether the incident occurred in Billings, Great Falls, or a rural Montana county, we act fast to protect your freedom.

Assault and Aggravated Assault Defense

Montana law separates simple assault from aggravated assault based on the severity of harm and the presence of weapons. A conviction for simple assault may result in up to six months in jail. Aggravated assault carries much harsher penalties and may lead to years in prison and permanent felony status.

Our attorneys investigate who initiated the conflict, whether you acted in self-defense, and whether police followed arrest procedures correctly. In many cases, witness statements contain contradictions or exaggerations. We seek security footage, dispatch records, and forensic reports to challenge the evidence. When appropriate, we push for reduced charges or argue for stand-your-ground protections under Montana law.

Homicide and Manslaughter Charges

Homicide charges bring the most serious consequences in the criminal justice system. These cases often involve first-degree murder, second-degree murder, or negligent homicide. Penalties may include life imprisonment or decades behind bars. The outcome depends heavily on the strength of the prosecution’s timeline, motive theory, and physical evidence.

At Stevenson Law Office, we challenge these cases at every level. We examine the crime scene, weapon analysis, and autopsy reports. We bring in independent forensic experts to test the state’s findings. Our attorneys work to dismantle the prosecution’s case by exposing unreliable witnesses or incomplete investigations. We prepare every homicide case for trial from day one. Our focus is on eliminating weak charges, protecting your rights, and building the strongest defense possible.

Robbery and Violent Theft Crimes

Montana defines robbery as taking property through force or intimidation. This crime becomes aggravated when it involves a weapon or injury. Courts treat these charges seriously, especially if the alleged victim was elderly, disabled, or a public employee. A robbery conviction may result in years of imprisonment and loss of civil rights.

We defend robbery charges by reviewing surveillance footage, cell tower data, and law enforcement reports. Our attorneys challenge whether force was actually used or whether the event was a misunderstanding or property dispute. In cases involving multiple suspects, we argue for individual case analysis. We ensure the court understands your specific role, not just the group allegation.

Domestic Assault as a Violent Crime

If convicted, you may face jail time, fines, probation, mandatory classes, and a permanent criminal record. These outcomes affect not only your immediate freedom but also your long-term ability to find housing, maintain employment, and qualify for academic opportunities.

At Big Sky Law, we treat misdemeanor cases with the same urgency and strategy as we do felonies. Whether you were cited for an altercation on Higgins Avenue, a non-violent offense near the university campus, or a possession allegation under 50-32-231, we develop a custom defense that focuses on resolution and record protection.

Common Misdemeanor Charges Filed in Missoula

Misdemeanors in Missoula often include disorderly conduct, trespassing, theft under the felony threshold, and municipal code violations. In addition, charges under Title 50 Chapter 32 can fall into this category if the quantity or classification of the substance meets lower thresholds such as 50-32-232.

We begin each case by dissecting the evidence, reviewing police bodycam footage, and analyzing whether officers had probable cause to initiate the encounter. Many

misdemeanors rely on weak witness statements or overbroad police reports. We file motions to dismiss these charges when evidence is insufficient or improperly collected.

A Misdemeanor Conviction Can Still Limit Future Opportunities

Many clients underestimate the lasting effects of a misdemeanor conviction. Employers in Missoula and beyond frequently conduct background checks that flag even minor offenses. Rental companies and licensing boards may also deny applications based on a single conviction.

We approach misdemeanor defense with a long-term view. In every case, we pursue outcomes like deferred sentencing, conditional discharge, or full dismissal. When eligible, we also guide clients through the expungement process to clear their records completely.

For data on how misdemeanor records impact economic access and social mobility, review this study from the National Employment Law Project.

Early Negotiation Prevents Escalation in Misdemeanor Cases

Missoula prosecutors handle hundreds of misdemeanor cases each month. If your case enters the system without legal guidance, the court may quickly move it forward without considering your side. Early involvement by a defense attorney can change the course of the case before the first hearing.

We engage with the City Attorney’s Office or County Attorney’s Office before arraignment when possible. This gives us the opportunity to present mitigating facts, challenge the narrative in the police report, and explore pretrial diversion options that keep your record clean.

Take Control of Your Missoula Criminal Case Before the Court Does

When your future is on the line, delay is dangerous. Prosecutors in Missoula build their case immediately after arrest, and without a skilled legal defense, you risk losing control of your outcome. Whether you’re facing a DUI, a drug-related allegation under Title 50 Chapter 32, a domestic accusation, or a white collar charge, the court system does not pause to wait for your side of the story.

At Big Sky Law, we act fast to protect your freedom, your record, and your reputation. From the moment you contact us, we begin investigating the evidence, analyzing police conduct, and preparing a tailored defense designed to win. We appear in both Missoula Municipal and District Courts, handling everything from low-level misdemeanors to high-stakes felony trials.

Our clients are students, professionals, families, and everyday Montanans who refuse to let one mistake or false allegation define their future. If you want responsive legal help, local courtroom knowledge, and a law firm that fights from day one, we are ready to step in. Secure a confidential consultation now and get answers you can trust. Visit our website, or call our office directly at (406) 642-0207. Do not let the legal system control your next chapter. Let Big Sky Law stand between you and the charges you face.

Criminal Defense for Drug Charges in Montana

Drug charges in Montana can result in aggressive prosecution and long-term consequences. A conviction may lead to jail, mandatory treatment, loss of federal benefits, and a permanent criminal record. Even small amounts of illegal substances can trigger felony charges under Montana’s strict drug laws. Prosecutors in counties like Yellowstone, Missoula, and Cascade take a hard stance on all drug-related offenses.

At Stevenson Law Office, we defend clients accused of drug possession, distribution, trafficking, prescription fraud, and paraphernalia charges. We fight back against unreliable evidence, unlawful searches, and prosecutorial overreach. Every case demands a deep investigation into how drugs were found, who had control, and whether law enforcement respected your rights. We use aggressive motion practice and strategic negotiation to protect your record and your future.

Drug Possession Charges and Search Challenges

Montana law makes it a crime to knowingly possess controlled substances such as methamphetamine, cocaine, heroin, fentanyl, or ecstasy. Even possessing marijuana in quantities above the legal threshold can result in criminal charges. Possession of prescription medications without a valid prescription also counts as a criminal offense. First-time offenders may be eligible for treatment programs or deferred sentencing, but the court evaluates each case carefully.

Our attorneys examine whether the stop and search that led to your arrest followed the law. If police searched your car, home, or person without a valid warrant or probable cause, we move to suppress the evidence. We also investigate whether you had actual knowledge or control over the substance. In shared environments, it is often unclear who possessed the drugs. Our goal is to raise doubt and prevent unjust convictions.

Drug Distribution and Intent to Sell

Drug distribution charges in Montana carry severe penalties. These charges apply when the amount of drugs exceeds personal use or when packaging, scales, or large sums of cash are found. Distribution charges often lead to prison time, high fines, and the seizure of property. The state does not need to prove an actual sale. Possession with intent is enough to justify felony charges.

We defend these cases by challenging how police concluded that distribution occurred. Stevenson Law Office brings in experts to analyze packaging, weight, and context. Many clients arrested with larger quantities had no intent to sell. Others may have been set up or involved in sting operations with constitutional flaws. We seek to have charges reduced to possession or dismissed entirely.

Prescription Drug Offenses and Fraud Allegations

Montana prosecutes prescription drug crimes aggressively, especially in cases involving opioids, benzodiazepines, and stimulants. Common charges include doctor shopping, forged prescriptions, and possession of pills without a valid prescription. The state may charge even small errors as felony-level offenses.

Our attorneys investigate whether you had valid medical needs, misunderstood prescription terms, or became involved due to addiction. In many cases, treatment and diversion programs are available. We advocate for alternatives to incarceration and argue that addiction is a medical issue, not a criminal one. For clients facing allegations of fraud or forgery, we challenge handwriting analysis, pharmacy logs, and law enforcement procedures.

Drug Trafficking and Federal Prosecution

Drug trafficking cases often involve large amounts of narcotics and trigger both state and federal charges. Interstate drug movement, especially along I-90 and I-15 corridors, may attract DEA or FBI involvement. These cases bring mandatory minimums and require an aggressive and technical legal defense.

Stevenson Law Office defends trafficking cases by challenging surveillance methods, confidential informants, and wiretap evidence. We also explore whether the client had any direct involvement in transport or sales. Sometimes, our clients were unaware of the full scope of the operation or played minor roles. We push for reduced charges based on culpability and work to separate state from federal jurisdiction when possible.

Speak With a Montana Criminal Defense Attorney Today

If you have been arrested or charged with a crime in Montana, every moment matters. Delaying your response can limit your legal options and increase your risk of conviction. Prosecutors build their case immediately. You need a defense strategy in place before the first court date.

At Stevenson Law Office, we fight to protect your record, your freedom, and your future. Whether you face misdemeanor charges in municipal court or serious felony accusations in district court, we are ready to step in. Our attorneys have the local experience, legal insight, and courtroom skill to challenge the government’s case and defend your rights.

We offer free, confidential consultations to help you understand your options. From your first phone call to the final verdict, we stand by your side and deliver clear, aggressive legal advocacy. Do not wait to protect what matters most.

Call Stevenson Law Office today to schedule your free case evaluation with a trusted Montana criminal defense lawyer.

Our Practice Areas

Focused legal support across criminal, DUI, and probation cases.

Trusted by Clients

Read how we’ve stood by our clients during their most difficult moments.

Get Started Today

Act now — every moment counts in securing your defense.

Request Your Free Consultation!

While this website provides general information, it does not constitute legal advice. The best way to get guidance on your specific legal issue is to contact a lawyer. To schedule a meeting with an attorney, please call the firm or complete the intake form below.

Call Us

(406) 642-0207