Were You Abused in a Montana Juvenile Detention Facility?
You may be entitled to significant compensation. Montana has 13 juvenile detention facilities with 10 documented incidents of abuse. Get a free, confidential case review.
13
Facilities
10
Incidents
5
Lawsuits
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Montana Statute of Limitations: 3 years from discovery for childhood abuse
Time limits apply to abuse claims. Don't wait - get your free case evaluation today.
Your Legal Rights in Montana
Statute of Limitations
3 years from discovery for childhood abuse
No Upfront Cost
Most attorneys work on contingency - you pay nothing unless you win your case.
100% Confidential
All consultations are protected by attorney-client privilege. Your privacy is guaranteed.
Montana Detention Facilities
13 juvenile detention facilities across 11 cities. Click any facility to see documented incidents and legal options.
Billings(2 facilities)
Helena(2 facilities)
Boulder(1 facility)
Bozeman(1 facility)
Butte(1 facility)
Glendive(1 facility)
Great Falls(1 facility)
Kalispell(1 facility)
Miles City(1 facility)
Missoula(1 facility)
Thompson Falls(1 facility)
Documented Incidents in Montana
Lawsuits, investigations, and abuse cases at Montana juvenile detention facilities.
Multiple abuse allegations against staff members
Reports indicate three allegations of abuse of residents by staff members at Shodair Children's Hospital. Additional allegations include failing to provide therapy services and unnecessary use of restraints on patients.
Boy Sexual Abuse by Other Residents Lawsuit
A mother filed a lawsuit alleging that Yellowstone Boys and Girls Ranch failed to protect her son from sexual abuse by other residents. The jury found the Ranch liable for the abuse.
Newman case settlement
A settlement was reached in the Newman case involving Spring Creek Lodge Academy. The settlement was later reduced to a judgment.
Former Employee Sexual Abuse of Three Girls
A former Yellowstone Boys and Girls Ranch employee was charged with sexually abusing three underage girls at the facility. Law enforcement investigated reports of sexual assault by the former employee.
Timothy Allen Westervelt Sexual Assault Charges
Timothy Allen Westervelt, a former employee at Yellowstone Boys and Girls Ranch, was charged with sexually assaulting two girls at the facility. He was previously charged with sexual abuse of another child.
Newman v. Lichfield lawsuit
Lawsuit filed against Spring Creek Lodge Academy, Spring Creek Lodge LLC, Spring Creek Lodge Inc., Cameron Pullan, Chaffin Pullan and others. Case reached Montana Supreme Court level.
Patient suicide linked to low staffing and inadequate monitoring
A patient suicide occurred at Shodair Children's Hospital in May 2021. State investigations found that low staffing numbers, staff burnout, and failure to regularly monitor patients contributed to the death.
Sexual abuse lawsuit involving 15-year-old girl by mental health staff
In February 2005, a lawsuit was filed alleging that Shodair Children's Hospital was negligent in connection to the sexual abuse of a 15-year-old girl by mental health staff. The lawsuit claimed the hospital failed to properly supervise staff and protect patients from abuse.
Karlye Newman suicide at Spring Creek Lodge Academy
16-year-old Karlye Newman died by suicide, hanging herself with her sweatshirt in a bathroom at Spring Creek Lodge Academy. The incident occurred approximately 15 years before 2019 testimony to Montana State Legislature.
Sexual abuse and physical violence allegations
The New York Times reported on allegations of sexual abuse, physical violence, and psychological duress at Spring Creek Lodge Academy. The facility faced multiple violations including child abuse and overcrowding.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the statute of limitations for juvenile detention abuse in Montana?
In Montana, the statute of limitations is 3 years from discovery for childhood abuse. However, recent laws in many states have extended or eliminated time limits for childhood abuse cases. Contact us for a free consultation to understand your specific situation.
How much does it cost to file a lawsuit against a Montana juvenile detention facility?
Most attorneys handle juvenile detention abuse cases on a contingency fee basis, meaning you pay nothing upfront and only pay if you win. Legal fees typically come from the settlement or verdict amount.
Can I sue even if the abuse happened years ago?
Yes, many states including Montana have extended or created lookback windows for childhood abuse cases. Even if the statute of limitations has passed, recent legal changes may allow your case to proceed. Contact us for a free evaluation.
What types of abuse qualify for a lawsuit?
Physical abuse, sexual abuse, emotional abuse, medical neglect, excessive force, solitary confinement abuse, and failure to protect from harm can all be grounds for legal action. If you suffered any form of mistreatment in a Montana detention facility, you may have a case.
How much compensation can I receive?
Settlement amounts vary based on the severity of abuse, lasting impacts, and other factors. Victims nationwide have received settlements ranging from thousands to millions of dollars. Contact us for a free case evaluation.
Take the First Step Today
If you or a loved one experienced abuse in a Montana juvenile detention facility, you deserve justice. Our experienced attorneys are ready to fight for you.
- No upfront costs - pay nothing unless you win
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- Experienced juvenile justice attorneys