The bill revises the enforcement of liens in Montana by amending Section 71-3-1203 of the Montana Code Annotated. Key changes include allowing lien enforcement actions to be filed in a court of competent jurisdiction in the county where the contract was made, where the property owner resides, or where the property is located, rather than specifically in the district court of the county. Additionally, the bill eliminates the requirement for a summons when a claim is made under this section, replacing it with an order to show cause, which does not require prior notice or service of process on the owner.

Further amendments streamline the process for lien claims, including changes to the affidavit requirements and the service of the order to show cause. The bill specifies that the order must be served on the property owner by certified mail and first-class mail at least 21 days before the hearing date. It also clarifies that the owner may request a hearing in a court of competent jurisdiction to contest any matters regarding the sale of the property. Overall, these revisions aim to simplify and expedite the lien enforcement process in Montana.

Statutes affected:
LC Text: 71-3-1203
SB0373_1: 71-3-1203