Warrants are public records in Stillwater County, Montana, pursuant to Montana Code Annotated § 2-6-1003, which establishes the public's right to access government records. The Montana Public Records Act mandates that most judicial documents, including arrest warrants that have been executed, be accessible to the public to ensure transparency in governmental operations. This statutory framework supports the constitutional right of citizens to examine public documents and proceedings.
The Stillwater County District Court maintains these records in accordance with state law. Public access to warrant information serves multiple civic purposes, including:
Certain exceptions may apply to warrants that are part of ongoing investigations or those sealed by judicial order under Montana Code Annotated § 46-5-202. In such cases, access may be restricted until the investigation concludes or the court lifts the seal.
Warrant records maintained by the Stillwater County Sheriff's Office typically contain comprehensive information as required by Montana Code Annotated § 46-6-214. Standard warrant documentation includes:
These records are maintained in both physical and electronic formats at the Stillwater County Courthouse and Sheriff's Office. The level of detail contained in publicly accessible versions may vary based on case specifics and applicable privacy statutes.
Members of the public may verify warrant status in Stillwater County through several no-cost methods established under Montana's public information laws. The following official channels provide warrant verification services:
Stillwater County Sheriff's Office
400 E 3rd Avenue N
Columbus, MT 59019
Phone: (406) 322-5326
Official Website
Hours: Monday-Friday, 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Stillwater County District Court
400 E 3rd Avenue N, Room 301
Columbus, MT 59019
Phone: (406) 322-8550
Hours: Monday-Friday, 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Additionally, the Montana Judicial Branch provides the Montana Courts Public Access Portal, which allows citizens to search for court records, including warrant information. This service is available 24 hours per day and provides basic case information, though users should note that not all warrant information may be immediately updated in the system.
Pursuant to Montana Code Annotated § 2-6-1006, agencies may require proper identification when requesting warrant information to ensure appropriate access to these records.
The Stillwater County Sheriff's Office is the primary law enforcement agency responsible for executing warrants within county jurisdiction. Sheriff warrants are issued under the authority granted by Montana Code Annotated § 46-6-201 and represent formal judicial commands to law enforcement officers.
The Sheriff's Office maintains a dedicated warrants division that processes and serves various types of warrants including:
Warrant execution procedures follow strict protocols established by Montana law and departmental policy. The Sheriff's Office coordinates with other law enforcement agencies when warrant subjects are believed to be outside Stillwater County jurisdiction.
Stillwater County Sheriff's Office
400 E 3rd Avenue N
Columbus, MT 59019
Phone: (406) 322-5326
Official Website
Hours: Monday-Friday, 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Individuals seeking to determine if they are subject to an active warrant in Stillwater County may utilize several official verification methods. As of 2025, the county has implemented enhanced public access systems in compliance with Montana Code Annotated § 2-6-1003 and § 2-6-1006.
The most reliable methods for warrant verification include:
Direct contact with the Stillwater County Sheriff's Office at (406) 322-5326 during business hours. Individuals must provide proper identification information, including full legal name and date of birth.
In-person inquiry at the Sheriff's Office located at 400 E 3rd Avenue N, Columbus, MT 59019. Office hours are Monday through Friday, 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM.
Electronic verification through the Montana Courts Public Access Portal, which provides 24-hour access to court records, including warrant status.
Consultation with a licensed attorney who can access court records on behalf of a client.
Pursuant to Montana law, individuals with active warrants are subject to arrest. Those who believe they may have an outstanding warrant are advised to resolve the matter promptly through proper legal channels.
The verification of outstanding warrants in Stillwater County follows established procedures under Montana public records statutes. Citizens seeking this information have multiple official channels available:
In-Person Verification: Individuals may visit the Stillwater County Sheriff's Office at 400 E 3rd Avenue N, Columbus, MT 59019 during regular business hours (Monday-Friday, 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM). Staff can conduct warrant searches using the county's records management system. Photo identification is required for all inquiries.
Telephone Inquiries: The Sheriff's Office accepts telephone warrant inquiries at (406) 322-5326. Callers must provide sufficient identifying information to facilitate an accurate search.
Online Resources: The Stillwater County website provides access to certain public records. Additionally, the Montana Judicial Branch maintains the Montana Courts Public Access Portal where court records, including warrant information, can be searched.
For comprehensive background checks, the Montana Department of Justice offers the Montana Offender Search service, which provides information on convicted felons in the state.