Theft
MCA 45-6-301 — up to $1,500 of property a misdemeanor, more a felony with up to 10 years
Theft is purposely or knowingly taking unauthorized control of another's property, getting it by threat or deception, or taking property known to be stolen, meaning to deprive the owner of it or using it in a way that does.
Who handles this in Montana: State Bar of Montana, Licensed Lawyer Montana; and legal aid programs and the state offices, listed in the Montana directory.
| Value | Penalty |
|---|---|
| ValueNot exceeding $1,500, first or second offense | PenaltyUp to $1,500, up to 6 months, or both |
| ValueNot exceeding $1,500, third or later | Penalty$1,500 and 30 days to 6 months |
| ValueExceeding $1,500 | PenaltyUp to $50,000, up to 10 years, or both |
| ValueA light vehicle, whatever its value | PenaltyUp to $50,000, up to 10 years, or both |
Sources for this section (1)
- MCA 45-6-301 — Theft
Legal information, not legal advice. Verified as of October 2026. Applying it to a particular situation is the work of a licensed Montana attorney.