These rules govern the procedure for obtaining a
declaratory judgment under Title 27, Chapter 8. Rules 38 and 39, subject to the provisions
of section 27-8-302, govern a demand for a jury trial. The existence of another adequate
remedy does not preclude a declaratory judgment that is otherwise appropriate. The court
may order a speedy hearing of a declaratory-judgment action.
Rule 57.Declaratory Judgments
Enacted effective October 1, 2011 · Last verified June 26, 2026
In one sentenceRule 57 provides the procedure for declaratory judgments under Montana's Uniform Declaratory Judgments Act (Title 27, Chapter 8), confirming that the jury-trial rules apply and that the existence of another remedy does not bar declaratory relief.
Full Text of Rule 57
Plain-English Summary
A declaratory judgment settles the parties' legal rights without necessarily ordering anyone to act. Rule 57 plugs that remedy into the rules of procedure: declaratory-judgment actions proceed under Title 27, Chapter 8 (Montana's Uniform Declaratory Judgments Act), Rules 38 and 39 govern any jury demand, and — importantly — the existence of another adequate remedy does not preclude a declaratory judgment that is otherwise appropriate. The court may order a speedy hearing of such an action.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a declaratory judgment?
A court ruling that declares the parties' rights or legal relations, without necessarily ordering anyone to do anything. In Montana it is governed by Title 27, Chapter 8.
Can I seek a declaratory judgment if another remedy is available?
Yes. The existence of another adequate remedy does not preclude a declaratory judgment that is otherwise appropriate.
Source & verification. Reproduced verbatim from the Montana Code Annotated as
published by the State Law Library of Montana and the Montana Legislature. This rule has not been amended since its adoption.
Adopted by the Supreme Court of Montana (AF 07-0157). Last verified June 26, 2026. ·
Official text
Also known as: declaratory judgmentdeclaratory relief