70-27-204. Amendment of complaint after trial begins. (1) When, upon the trial of any proceeding under this chapter, it appears from the evidence that the defendant has been guilty of either forcible entry or forcible or unlawful detainer and other than the offense charged in the complaint, the judge must order that such complaint be forthwith amended to conform with such proof. Such amendment must be made without any imposition of terms.

Terms Used In Montana Code 70-27-204

  • Amendment: A proposal to alter the text of a pending bill or other measure by striking out some of it, by inserting new language, or both. Before an amendment becomes part of the measure, thelegislature must agree to it.
  • Complaint: A written statement by the plaintiff stating the wrongs allegedly committed by the defendant.
  • Continuance: Putting off of a hearing ot trial until a later time.
  • Defendant: In a civil suit, the person complained against; in a criminal case, the person accused of the crime.
  • Evidence: Information presented in testimony or in documents that is used to persuade the fact finder (judge or jury) to decide the case for one side or the other.
  • Trial: A hearing that takes place when the defendant pleads "not guilty" and witnesses are required to come to court to give evidence.

(2)No continuance shall be permitted on account of such amendment unless the defendant by affidavit filed shows to the satisfaction of the court good cause therefor.