Big Timber Criminal Defense Lawyer

Top Rated Criminal Defense Attorney in Big Timber, MT

Being charged with a crime can leave you facing difficult decisions with little time to understand your legal options. A Big Timber criminal defense lawyer can review the charges and explain the Montana laws that apply to your case so that you can make informed decisions at each stage of the process. Early legal guidance can help you better understand the criminal justice process and protect your rights from the outset.

Mountain & Valley Law Firm represents individuals facing a wide range of criminal matters in southwest Montana.

Hire a Criminal Defense Lawyer

Mountain & Valley Law Firm offers criminal defense services grounded in disciplined preparation and attorney-focused representation. At Mountain & Valley Law Firm, our attorneys practice with a spirit of service, integrity, and diligence while formulating a legal strategy that is custom-made for each client. 

We understand the importance of open communication and detailed case preparation. Our attorneys work closely with clients throughout the criminal justice process, so they understand their legal options and remain actively involved in decisions affecting their cases.

How Prosecutors Build Criminal Cases

An arrest does not always lead to formal criminal charges. In most cases, prosecutors review the evidence available, the laws that may have been broken, witness and victim statements, law enforcement reports, and other information in an investigation before filing a case. 

According to the FBI, law enforcement agencies reported more than 14 million criminal offenses in 2024, but not every reported offense resulted in criminal charges. Prosecutors must decide whether sufficient evidence exists to prove each element of the alleged offense under Montana law.

Additional evidence may be developed after charges have been filed. Prosecutors may add to, reduce, or dismiss charges as the facts of the case unfold. Each charging decision is based on the particular facts of the case.

Meet Our Attorneys

Albert Jones

Pierce Teeuwen

Sterling Fitzwater

Constitutional Rights During a Criminal Investigation

Before official charges are brought, individuals under a criminal investigation are still entitled to constitutional rights. The Fourth Amendment bars unreasonable searches and seizures, the Fifth Amendment addresses self-incrimination, and the Sixth Amendment ensures the right to an attorney once adversarial criminal proceedings begin.

Article II of the Montana Constitution also guarantees these rights. Whether law enforcement lawfully obtained evidence or violated a person’s constitutional rights can become a central issue in a Montana criminal case.

Understanding Possible Criminal Penalties in Montana

The punishment range for a criminal conviction depends on the type of offense, the defendant’s criminal history, and other factors established under Montana law. The court may sentence the defendant to jail or prison, probation, fines, restitution, community service, or a court-ordered treatment program. Montana classifies most criminal offenses as either a misdemeanor or a felony, under Mont. Code Ann. § 45-2-101. 

A criminal conviction may have additional consequences for a defendant’s future employment. According to the EEOC, a national survey showed 92% of the responding employers check the criminal background of all or some job applicants.

Contact a Big Timber Criminal Defense Lawyer

If you have been charged with a crime in Big Timber, getting sound legal advice as soon as possible can help you know your options under Montana law. The legal team at Mountain & Valley Law Firm is well-versed in the operations of the Sixth Judicial District Court for Sweet Grass County, offering strategic counsel through each step of a criminal matter.  Schedule a consultation today to hire a criminal defense lawyer.