Butte-Silver Bow county attorney warns of heavy caseload, staffing gaps and recommends structural review

Butte-Silver Bow County Attorney Matt Enruth told the study commission that his dual role as both the City of Butte and county attorney leaves his office stretched thin and grappling with a high volume of crime and limited staff. "I am the Butte Silver Bow County Attorney. I have a dual role. I am the City Of Butte's Attorney and the county attorney," Enruth said.

Enruth said the office prosecutes “about 400 felonies a year and over 2,000 misdemeanors a year,” and described recruitment difficulties for entry-level attorneys. He told commissioners the current open county attorney position, listed at about $93,000 a year, had attracted no applicants in three weeks. "I have had 0 applicants in 3 weeks," he said.

Why it matters: Enruth told the commission the caseload and staff shortages affect court calendars, the handling of major crimes and social-service matters (dependent-neglect and involuntary commitments) and can strain victim services. He urged the study commission to consider whether government reorganization or added positions would improve service and legal coverage across city and county responsibilities.

Major duties and caseload: Enruth reviewed the office’s duties —…