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Montana Probate Glossary

Plain-language definitions of the words a Montana personal representative actually meets, each tied to the section of the Montana Uniform Probate Code (Title 72 of the Montana Code Annotated) that creates it. Montana runs probate through the district court of the county, calls the job personal representative, and lets the clerk of district court settle most uncontested cases without a hearing. Use this page to decode probate language before you open forms, call the local filing office, or decide whether an estate needs court supervision.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Why use a Montana probate glossary instead of a general legal glossary?
Montana probate procedure still uses many standard estate terms, but the way those terms appear on court forms, local instructions, and simplified procedures can vary. A state glossary helps families connect the definition to the actual filing path they are dealing with.
Which probate terms matter most at the start of an estate?
The most useful early terms are executor or personal representative, intestate, probate estate, letters testamentary, letters of administration, beneficiary, and small-estate procedure. Those concepts usually determine who can act and what kind of court filing is needed.
Can county rules change how probate terms are used in Montana?
Yes. Counties may use different packet names, clerk instructions, or local references even when the statewide legal concept is the same. That is why it helps to read the glossary alongside county filing-office and forms pages.

Information current as of April 4, 2026

Settled Estate is not a law firm, and this content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Probate laws and procedures in Montana can change. Consult with a qualified attorney for advice specific to your situation. Full disclaimer.

More Montana Resources

Explore the rest of the Montana probate hub.

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