Unfair and Deceptive Practices
MCA 30-14-133 — the loss or $500, whichever is greater, and up to three times the loss in the court's discretion
Unfair methods of competition and unfair or deceptive acts or practices in any trade or commerce are unlawful.
Who handles this in Montana: legal aid programs, lawyer referral and the state offices, listed in the Montana directory.
- A consumer who loses money or property to an unlawful practice may sue individually, not as a class, for the loss or $500, whichever is greater.
- The court may award up to three times the loss where actual damages do not exceed $100,000.
- An individual claim may be brought in justice's court.
Punitive damages are not available under this section.
Sources for this section (2)
- MCA 30-14-103 — Unlawful practices
- MCA 30-14-133 — Damages -- limitation on residential construction disputes -- notice to public agencies -- attorney fees -- prior judgment as evidence
Legal information, not legal advice. Verified as of October 2026. Applying it to a particular situation is the work of a licensed Montana attorney.