County Attorney
The county attorney is the legal adviser of the board of county commissioners. The county attorney shall attend their meetings when required and shall attend and oppose all claims and accounts against the county that are unjust or illegal. The county attorney shall defend all suits brought against the county.
The county attorney shall:
(a) give, when required and without fee, an opinion in writing to the county, district, and township officers on matters relating to the duties of their respective offices;
(b) act as counsel, without fee, for fire districts and fire service areas in unincorporated territories, towns, or villages within the county;
(c) act as counsel, without fee, when requested by a conservation district and weed district
(d) when requested by a county hospital board, act as counsel, without fee, unless the legal action requested involves the county commissioners.
- The County Attorney is an elected position and serves a 4-year term.
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Nancy Rohde
County AttorneyTerm Expires December 31, 2026
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Scott Pederson
Deputy County Attorney
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Brenda Flom
Paralegal
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Skylar Steele
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County Attorney
Physical Address
544 North Diamond Street
Columbus, MT 59019
Phone: 406-322-4333
- Can the County Attorney advise me of my rights, legal options, interpret statute for me, or assist me, as a private citizen or entity of the County?
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No, the County Attorney’s duties are outlined and limited by the Montana Statutes, and she cannot advise private parties.
- Can the County Attorney advise how to practice law or proper procedure for filing lawsuits or what legal avenues are available to me?
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No, the County Attorney cannot advise private parties in any legal capacity whatsoever. It is a commonly preconceived myth that the “County Attorney” is the attorney for all citizens of the county. This is not the case. The County Attorney is the attorney for Stillwater County, as a whole, representing the interests of the County, but cannot represent the individuals within the County. To do so would put the County Attorney in situations of conflict, and is not allowed by law.
- Where can I go then, as a private citizen, for legal help, guidance, or advice?
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You may inquire upon a private attorney. Many will give a free initial consultation. Another option is to contact Montana Legal Services Association at 800-666-6899. Additionally, the County Attorney cannot recommend an attorney for you.
- What do I do if I get a “No Proof of Insurance” ticket if I have insurance?
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View the information sheet for a violation of “No Proof Of Insurance (PDF)”.