Gavel Insight

Understanding and Disputing Parking Tickets in Montana Getting a parking ticket can be an unwelcome surprise, whether you're rushing to an appointment in Missoula, enjoying the scenic beauty of Bozeman, or navigating the bustling streets of Billings. While the immediate reaction might be to just pay the fine and move on, in Montana, you often have the right to dispute these tickets. Understanding when and how to challenge a parking violation can save you money, frustration, and ensure fairness. This guide offers practical, actionable advice for Montana drivers facing a parking ticket. Why Consider Disputing a Parking Ticket? Beyond the immediate financial burden, there are several compelling reasons to dispute a parking ticket in Montana: 💰 Financial Savings: Parking fines in Montana can range from approximately $25 for minor meter violations to $100 or more for infractions like handicapped parking violations or fire lane obstructions. Avoiding t...

Facing a Stop Sign Ticket in Montana? Here's What You Need to Know A stop sign ticket might seem like a minor inconvenience, but in Montana, it carries consequences that can impact your driving record, insurance rates, and even your wallet for years to come. Unlike some other states where traffic violations are treated more leniently, Montana takes road safety seriously, and running a stop sign is no exception. This article will provide a comprehensive guide to understanding, fighting, or managing a stop sign ticket in the Big Sky Country, offering practical, actionable advice. Understanding the Montana Stop Sign Violation Montana law, specifically Montana Code Annotated (MCA), dictates that drivers must come to a complete stop at a clearly marked stop sign before the stop line, crosswalk, or intersection. A "rolling stop" where your vehicle doesn't fully cease motion, even if it slows significantly, is technically a violation. Officers are traine...