When an order either grants
relief to a nonparty or may be lawfully enforced against a nonparty, the procedure for
enforcing the order is the same as for a party.
Rule 71.Enforcing Relief For or Against a Nonparty
Enacted effective October 1, 2011 · Last verified June 26, 2026
In one sentenceRule 71 provides that when a court order grants relief to, or may be enforced against, a nonparty, it is enforced using the same procedures that apply to a party.
Full Text of Rule 71
Plain-English Summary
Court orders sometimes reach people who are not formally parties. Rule 71 addresses that simply: when an order grants relief to a nonparty or may lawfully be enforced against a nonparty, the procedure for enforcing it is the same as for a party. A nonparty who benefits from an order can enforce it, and a nonparty bound by an order is subject to the same enforcement tools.
Frequently Asked Questions
How is a court order enforced for or against someone who isn't a party?
Using the same procedure as for a party, when the order grants relief to a nonparty or may lawfully be enforced against one.
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: nonparty enforcementrelief against nonparty