Student Loan Information

A new federal law is bringing major changes. Most of them won’t take effect until July 2026 or later, but here are a few things the National Consumer Law Center (NCLC) suggests you do now: Update your contact information on StudentAid.gov and with your loan servicer.  If you’re on the SAVE plan, prepare for possible …

How to Submit a Request for Accommodation to Participate in Court

July is Disability Pride Month, celebrated to commemorate the passing of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). We think this is a great time to remind everyone that you have the right to fully participate in court, regardless of disability. If you need an accommodation, like an assistive listening device, large-print court documents, or access …

Negotiating a payment plan with a debt collector?

Here is what you need to know: If you can’t agree on a payment plan, the debt collector could file a lawsuit. If they win, they could get a court judgment and garnish your wages.  The law sets limits on how much they can take from your paycheck. If you’re not already being garnished, you …

Expungement Form for a Fresh Start

Do you have old misdemeanor convictions that are impacting your chances for employment, housing, and other opportunities? Expungement is a legal process that allows you to seal and remove past convictions from your criminal record. Clearing your record can provide a fresh start, and we now have a form to help you through the process! …

Court Costs and Fees

If you cannot afford court fees, you can request a fee waiver using our free interactive form. A fee waiver is also called a “Statement of Inability to Pay Court Costs and Fees” and it is how you ask the judge to allow you to file your paperwork without paying the fees. After you file …

🍀 Happy St. Patrick’s Day! 🍀

This St. Patrick’s Day, we’re sharing the luck of the Irish with educators! We’ve created a free lesson plan to help high school students understand Montana’s legal system. 💼⚖️ In our article, “Basics of Montana’s Legal System and Courts,” you’ll find resources on: The importance of the law  The difference between criminal and civil issues …

National Consumer Protection Week

Creditors must treat you fairly and honestly. The Montana Consumer Protection Act (MCPA) ensures consumers are protected from dishonest and unfair practices. Examples of unfair or deceptive actions include: Telling you not to make payments and then charging late fees for missed payments.  Not following the terms of your loan agreement.  If you think a …

Request for Accommodation to Participate in Court

If you have a disability and need an accommodation such as an assistive listening device, court documents in large print, or access for your service animal, we have a form you can compete and submit to the court. The article is titled How to Submit a Request for Accommodation to Participate in Court on MontanaLawHelp.org.  …

Stalking is a crime.

With Valentine’s Day approaching we want to highlight the fact that stalking is not romantic. Stalking is illegal and stalkers can be held accountable. Stalking can include following, harassing, and/or intimidating someone in person, by phone, mail, over social media, or in other ways. Stalking behavior involves a series of acts which at first may …

Filing Taxes in Montana?

We’ve put together some helpful resources we think all low to moderate-income Montanans should know about. Earned Income Tax Credit – This credit can give workers and families a tax break. Be sure to check if you qualify when preparing your tax return. Elderly Homeowner Tax Credit – Montana homeowners and renters aged 62 or …