2026 Montana Supreme Court Access to Justice Commission Meeting
The Montana Supreme Court Access to Justice Commission is a state-established body dedicated to enhancing the quality and accessibility of civil legal services in Montana. The Commission convenes quarterly to discuss and implement initiatives aimed at improving access to justice for all residents.
The June 5, 2026 meeting, held via Zoom, featured several key agenda items. Katy Lovell presented the Access to Justice Programs report, which included an overview of the AI Working Group's research by Rose Chehrazi and updates on Community Justice Conversations. Alison Paul provided an update on the Montana Legal Services Association (MLSA), focusing on the Community Justice Worker (CJW) Working Group. Maggie Weamer discussed developments from the Self-Represented Litigant Committee. Justice Baker addressed the Commission's support for the Legal Services Corporation Budget, and Katy Lovell presented nominations for the Karla M. Gray Equal Justice Award. The meeting concluded with discussions on upcoming meeting dates and a public comment session.
The meeting was conducted virtually, allowing for broad participation across the state. Attendees included Commission members, MLSA representatives, and other stakeholders committed to improving access to justice in Montana. The virtual format facilitated efficient discussions and decision-making, ensuring that all participants could engage fully in the proceedings.
This meeting was particularly relevant for legal professionals, policymakers, and community leaders interested in the ongoing efforts to enhance civil legal services in Montana. By participating, attendees had the opportunity to contribute to shaping the future of access to justice initiatives in the state.
Categories
Speakers(19)
Aimee Grmoljez
Business/Communications Leader at Montana Supreme Court
Aimee Grmoljez is a business and communications leader involved with the Montana Supreme Court.
Alison Paul
Montana Legal Services Association Representative at Montana Supreme Court
Alison Paul represents the Montana Legal Services Association, providing civil legal aid to low-income individuals.
Gretchen Hall
Aging Services Bureau Representative at Montana Supreme Court
Gretchen Hall represents the Aging Services Bureau, focusing on services for older adults.
Hon. John Kutzman
District Court Judge at Montana Supreme Court
Hon. John Kutzman serves as a District Court Judge, adjudicating cases at the district level.
Hon. Leslie Halligan
District Court Judge at Montana Supreme Court
Hon. Leslie Halligan serves as a District Court Judge, overseeing legal cases at the district level.
Hon. Stacie FourStar
Judge at Montana-Wyoming Tribal Judges Association
Hon. Stacie FourStar is a judge affiliated with the Montana-Wyoming Tribal Judges Association.
Jacob Griffith
Attorney General’s Office Representative at Montana Supreme Court
Jacob Griffith represents the Attorney General’s Office, providing legal counsel to the state.
Juli Pierce
State Bar of Montana Representative at Montana Supreme Court
Juli Pierce represents the State Bar of Montana, the professional association for attorneys in the state.
Justice Beth Baker
Justice at Montana Supreme Court
Justice Beth Baker serves on the Montana Supreme Court, contributing to the state's highest judicial authority.
Justice David A. Carter
Justice at Montana Supreme Court
Justice David A. Carter serves on the Montana Supreme Court, participating in the state's highest judicial decisions.
Katy Lovell
Access to Justice Programs Manager at Montana Supreme Court
Katy Lovell manages the Access to Justice Programs, overseeing initiatives to enhance legal access in Montana.
Kekek Stark
Assistant Professor of Law at Alexander Blewett III School of Law, University of Montana
Kekek Stark is an Assistant Professor of Law at the Alexander Blewett III School of Law, University of Montana.
Maggie Weamer
Self-Represented Litigant Committee Chair at Montana Supreme Court
Maggie Weamer chairs the Self-Represented Litigant Committee, supporting individuals navigating the legal system without representation.
Margaret Weamer
Montana Justice Foundation Representative at Montana Supreme Court
Margaret Weamer represents the Montana Justice Foundation, supporting civil legal aid initiatives.
Olivia Riutta
Representative of Organizations Working with Low-Income Individuals at Montana Supreme Court
Olivia Riutta represents organizations that assist low-income individuals with legal services.
Rep. Alanah Griffith
Representative at Montana House of Representatives
Rep. Alanah Griffith serves in the Montana House of Representatives, contributing to state legislation.
Rick Cook
Clerk of District Court at Montana Supreme Court
Rick Cook serves as the Clerk of a District Court, managing court records and proceedings.
Rose Chehrazi
AI Working Group Researcher at Montana Supreme Court
Rose Chehrazi conducts research for the AI Working Group, focusing on integrating artificial intelligence into legal processes.
Sen. Wendy McKamey
Senator at Montana Senate
Sen. Wendy McKamey represents the Montana Senate, contributing to state legislation.
Event Details
- Date
- June 5, 2026
- Location
- 🇺🇸 Helena, United States
- Zoom Video Conference
- Audience
- Legal professionals, policymakers, community leaders