Courts are state and federal government institutions with the authority to decide legal disputes and administer justice under the law in civil, criminal, and administrative matters. Courts are generally given this authority under the relevant state or federal constitution, and the relevant state or federal statutes. Courts are generally staffed by (1) one judge (in trial courts) or a panel of judges (in appellate courts) who interpret and apply the law; (2) support staff members that may include administrators (clerks); (3) a court reporter to record court proceedings; and (4) a bailiff to provide security.

The room in which court proceedings are conducted is known as the courtroom, and the building that includes the courtroom is known as the courthouse. The term “the court” may be used to refer to the judge or judges who are presiding over court proceedings. The judges in a state or federal court system are collectively known as the judiciary.

In Montana (MT), courts operate as part of the state and federal judiciary systems, with the authority to resolve legal disputes and deliver justice in accordance with the law across civil, criminal, and administrative cases. This authority is derived from the Montana State Constitution and federal constitution, as well as state and federal statutes. At the trial court level, typically one judge presides over cases, while appellate courts may have a panel of judges. The judiciary, which includes these judges, is supported by staff such as clerks who manage administrative tasks, court reporters who document proceedings, and bailiffs who ensure courtroom security. Court proceedings take place in a courtroom, which is located within a courthouse. The term 'the court' can refer to either the physical courtroom or the judge(s) presiding over the proceedings. Montana's court system is structured with various levels, including limited jurisdiction courts (such as Justice and City Courts), District Courts, the Montana Supreme Court, and specialized courts like the Workers' Compensation Court. Additionally, federal courts in Montana, including U.S. District Courts and the Ninth Circuit Court of Appeals, handle cases under federal jurisdiction.