Legal Question in Real Estate Law in Montana

Ownership of found property .

I found a stray horse on my road by my house. I caught him and put him in the pasture for safe keeping. I have reported it to the police, but no one has claimed him yet. He was hurt, so I have been doctoring and feeding him. He also has no brand or ownership markings. How long must I wait before I can claim him as my own, and am I entitled to money for doctoring and feeding him if someone claims him?


Asked on 11/19/01, 4:05 pm

1 Answer from Attorneys
Phillip Oliver Oliver Law Firm, P.C.

Re: Ownership of found property .

Pursuant to Section 81-4-601 through 81-4-621, you are supposed to notify the stock inspector of your district of the stray horse. The stock inspector then will advertise 30-60 days that he holds the horse and then the horse will be sold at an auction. You should be reimbursed from the auction proceeds for taking care of the horse. Further, it is a crime to keep possession of the stray.

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Answered on 11/21/01, 1:13 pm


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