Missoula County Justice Court is a court of limited jurisdiction responsible for criminal, civil, and traffic matters within the boundaries of Missoula County. Justice Court is a county court that has two divisions: criminal and civil. The criminal side handles misdemeanor cases that occurred in the county outside of city limits. The civil side handles cases like small claims and landlord-tenant disputes. The court has two elected Justices of the Peace serving four-year terms.

The court administers criminal probable cause reviews, initial appearances on felony charges, misdemeanor arraignments, preliminary hearings and trials for misdemeanor and traffic cases. The court's civil jurisdiction includes amounts up to $12,000 (including landlord/tenant eviction cases) and small claims cases up to $7,000. The court's ticket desks are responsible for citation violations issued by the Missoula County Sheriff’s Office; Montana Highway Patrol and Motor Carrier Service; Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks and Missoula Animal Control. 

No weapons are allowed in the courthouse and there is no smoking in the courthouse. There is no eating, drinking, chewing tobacco or gum allowed in the courtroom. Backpacks are not allowed in the courtroom. Cellular telephones and other electronic devices must be turned off before entering the Justice Court offices.

Proper courtroom attire is required. Offensive slogans or pictures are not allowed on clothing. Hats should be removed before entering the courtroom. While in the courtroom please sit quietly when Court is in session. When possible, please avoid bringing children to court.

On-street parking is available around the courthouse with handicap parking near the north, east and west entrances of the building. Additional parking is available on the third floor of The Central Park parking garage located one block south of the courthouse at 128 W. Main St.

This department is funded through the General Fund line item on your tax bill.