Montana Gov: Gov. Gianforte Appoints Gregory Bonilla

Bonilla files for judge position

Trellis Law: Judge Greg Bonilla

Gregory earned a bachelor's degree in economics from University of Montana and a law degree from the University of California Berkeley School of Law. 

Gregory is a civil practice attorney with experience practicing private law and serving as a county attorney.

Gregory L. Bonilla is the District Court Judge in Judicial District 9. He was appointed in 2023 and has served one year in this position. 

Montana’s 9th District court has a new judge

As District Court Judge in Judicial District 9, presides over trials, rules on legal matters, and issues verdicts in criminal and civil cases.

Operated a private practice, the Bonilla Law Office, from 2008 to 2009.

Served as an attorney for the Montana Association of Counties from 2009 to 2023 and defended counties, special districts, and government officials.

Practiced private law as an associate at Smith, Walsh, Clarke, & Gregoire from 2006 to 2008.

Served as Cascade County Deputy County Attorney from 2001 to 2006 and prosecuted criminal cases, represented the county, and provided legal advice to county officials.

- As District Court Judge in Judicial District 9, presides over trials, rules on legal matters, and issues verdicts in criminal and civil cases.
- Operated a private practice, the Bonilla Law Office, from 2008 to 2009.
- Served as an attorney for the Montana Association of Counties from 2009 to 2023 and defended counties, special districts, and government officials.
- Practiced private law as an associate at Smith, Walsh, Clarke, & Gregoire from 2006 to 2008.
- Served as Cascade County Deputy County Attorney from 2001 to 2006 and prosecuted criminal cases, represented the county, and provided legal advice to county officials.

Legal Experience

As of September 17, 2024, Gregory L. Bonilla did not have a website or any information online.

Ethics & Conduct

Judicial Administration

Judicial Philosophy

Community Involvement

Gregory L. Bonilla

- 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.