JUDGES

Trellis

John graduated from Carleton College and earned his Juris Doctor from the University of Pudget Sound (now Seattle University) School of Law. He and his wife have two children. 

John was a part-time Federal Magistrate Judge in Missoula. He previously practiced private law for 17 years after being a Law clerk at the Montana Supreme Court.

John Larson has served on the Montana state trial bench since 1993.

Judge Profile: Hon. John W. Larson

While in private practice, he practiced personal injury, bankruptcy, and administrative law.

Named Judge of the Year by the National Court Appointed Special Advocate Program.

- While in private practice, he practiced personal injury, bankruptcy, and administrative law.
- Named Judge of the Year by the National Court Appointed Special Advocate Program.

Legal Experience

As of September 17, 2024, John W Larson did not have a website or any information online.

Ethics & Conduct

Established Montana’s first drug treatment court.

- Established Montana’s first drug treatment court.

Judicial Administration

Judicial Philosophy

Member of the National Council of Juvenile and Family Court Judges, serving two terms on its National Board of Trustees.

Served as President of the Montana Judge’s Association.

Served on the Board of Directors of the Montana Legal Services since 2000.

Member of the Montana Supreme Court Drug Court Advisory Committee.

- Member of the National Council of Juvenile and Family Court Judges, serving two terms on its National Board of Trustees.
- Served as President of the Montana Judge’s Association.
- Served on the Board of Directors of the Montana Legal Services since 2000.
- Member of the Montana Supreme Court Drug Court Advisory Committee.

Community Involvement

John W Larson

- Montana District Courts are central to the state’s judicial system, handling most major legal proceedings and providing a pathway for appeals from lower courts.
- Montana District Court Judges handle a wide variety of cases, including all serious criminal charges and smaller felonies. These courts also take on major civil disputes and state financial claims.
- In civil matters, these judges deal with wills and estates (probate), disputes over contracts and property ownership, and other non-criminal legal issues.
- These judges also have the authority to review decisions made by smaller local courts within their jurisdiction, as allowed by state law and the Constitution.
Judges in the District Courts are elected by the public in their districts, emphasizing the importance of community representation.