Senate Bill No. [insert bill number] aims to revise laws related to partner or family member assault in Montana by defining the term "victim" and clarifying the legal protections available to them. The bill specifies that a "victim" is a partner or family member against whom an assault is committed, and it introduces new provisions stating that a victim may use self-defense and cannot be charged with partner or family member assault. Additionally, the bill stipulates that only one party involved in an incident of partner or family member assault may be charged, thereby reducing the potential for dual charges in such cases.

The bill also amends existing laws regarding the penalties for partner or family member assault and strangulation of a partner or family member. It establishes a structured penalty system for offenders, including fines and imprisonment terms that escalate with repeat offenses. Furthermore, it mandates that offenders complete counseling assessments and treatment programs focused on violence and controlling behavior. The amendments ensure that victims are not held accountable for actions taken in self-defense and reinforce the legal framework to protect victims of domestic violence.

Statutes affected:
LC Text: 45-5-206, 45-5-215
SB0383_1(1): 45-5-206, 45-5-215
SB0383_1(2): 45-5-206, 45-5-215
SB0383_1(3): 45-5-206, 45-5-215
SB0383_1: 45-5-206, 45-5-215