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Women in criminal justice: Elizabeth Best says being a judge is more than wearing the robe

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Elizabeth received a bachelor's degree in political science from Montana State University and a law degree from The University of Montana Law School. She is married with two children.

Elizabeth was a trial lawyer at Best Law Offices, P.C. She also served as a law clerk to Paul Hatfield of the United States District Court for the District of Montana.

Elizabeth Best is a District Court Judge in Judicial District 8. She was appointed in 2016. She ran unsuccessfully for a seat on the Montana Supreme Court in 2012.

As a trial lawyer, she handled employment, wrongful discharge, civil rights and negligence. She also handled silicone breast implant litigation cases for women in Montana.

Appointed by the Montana Supreme Court to its Evidence and Civil Procedure Commissions, and by the U.S. District Court, District of Montana, to its Local Rules Committee.

- As a trial lawyer, she handled employment, wrongful discharge, civil rights and negligence. She also handled silicone breast implant litigation cases for women in Montana.
- Appointed by the Montana Supreme Court to its Evidence and Civil Procedure Commissions, and by the U.S. District Court, District of Montana, to its Local Rules Committee.

Legal Experience

As of September 17, 2024, Elizabeth Best did not have a website or any information online.

Ethics & Conduct

Judicial Administration

Judicial Philosophy

Said, "I have a history and strong belief in public service, which also includes service on a local school board and other volunteer service."

- Said, "I have a history and strong belief in public service, which also includes service on a local school board and other volunteer service."

Community Involvement

Elizabeth Best

- 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.