Senate Bill No. [insert bill number] aims to revise laws related to self-defense in Montana. The bill stipulates that no individual may be placed in legal jeopardy when defending themselves, their family, or their property against serious crimes, including assault, robbery, and homicide. It also establishes that individuals who successfully argue the affirmative defense of justifiable use of force are entitled to reimbursement for out-of-pocket costs and attorney fees associated with the defense of the specific forcible felony charge that did not result in a conviction.

Additionally, the bill outlines that reimbursement for these costs will be sourced from the budget allocated to the prosecutor for the trial of the charge that did not lead to a conviction. However, if the defendant is convicted of other charges where the defense of justifiable use of force was not raised or was unsuccessful, they will be responsible for their own legal costs. The bill includes provisions for codification as part of Title 45, chapter 3, part 1 of the Montana Code.