LAIRD COWLEY, PLLC
(406) 541-7400
Top-Rated Montana Attorneys
Laird Cowley is a law firm in Montana, with offices located in Missoula, Montana and Helena, Montana. Our legal services are sought after by businesses and individuals all throughout Montana and the Western United States. Our excellence is recognized by top-tier institutions, esteemed organizations, and professionals nationwide.
Who We Are
Laird Cowley is a law firm in Montana, with offices located in Missoula, Montana and Helena, Montana.
Our professionalism and excellence sets us apart as Montana’s top team of lawyers. We are a multi-faceted law firm focused on Commercial Litigation, Personal Injury, Insurance Litigation, Personal Injury, Professional Negligence, Family Law, Employment Law, Workers Compensation Defense, Construction Litigation, Business Law, and Immigration Law.
Our Locations
Our Partners & Attorneys
CORY R. LAIRD
Managing Partner
Managing Partner & Attorney, Cory R. Laird is an experienced trial attorney whose work is recognized at a statewide and regional level. Cory is adept in handling a wide array of complex litigation matters and has represented businesses and individuals in wrongful death actions, multi-million-dollar real estate development cases, civil rights actions, professional negligence cases, complex tort litigation, construction litigation, and many other types of disputes.
JANE E. COWLEY
Partner
Partner & Attorney Jane E. Cowley is an accomplished legal professional that holds a Master’s Degree in Social Work and Juris Doctor from the University of Connecticut. With a legal career spanning over two decades, Jane is recognized for her excellence in family law matters and has a reputation as one of the top divorce lawyers in the Western United States.
SARA S. BERG
Partner
Partner and Attorney Sara S. Berg is an esteemed legal professional with a Juris Doctor from the University of Montana School of Law. With an impressive career spanning over two decades, she is a celebrated expert in her field and has achieved extensive recognition as a top Montana lawyer. As a seasoned litigator and attorney-mediator, Sara leads our Helena Office and is a key contributor to its success.
TOM HARRINGTON
Partner
Partner and Attorney Tom Harrington is an accomplished legal professional with a Juris Doctor from the University of Montana School of Law. With a reputation as a top Montana lawyer and a professional career spanning over two decades, Tom brings exceptional insight and expertise to the Laird Cowley team. Working out of our Missoula office, he is intensely focused on civil litigation matters such as workers’ compensation claims and is also knowledgeable in insurance litigation, personal injury, and professional negligence matters.
RILEY M. WAVRA
Partner
Partner & Attorney Riley M. Wavra is an accomplished legal professional with an impressive and diverse professional background. While his work is primarily focused on commercial litigation, he is well-versed in a variety of areas including construction litigation, civil rights litigation, ADA disputes, employment law and business matters, personal injury, and professional negligence.
RYAN G. WELDON
Partner
Partner and Attorney Ryan G. Weldon is a seasoned trial lawyer whose work is recognized at the state, regional, and national levels. A former federal prosecutor, Ryan possesses extensive courtroom experience and is highly adept at handling complex, high-stakes legal matters.
SARAH W. MCCLAIN
Associate Attorney
Sarah W. McClain is an accomplished Associate Attorney with a Juris Doctor from the Willamette University College of Law. With over fifteen years of experience in law, Sarah is a recognized expert in her field and is known for her work as both an advocate and an attorney. Working from our Helena office, Sarah provides expert legal representation in family law matters and immigration law.
TOM BELL
Attorney Of Counsel
Tom Bell concentrates primarily on workers’ compensation matters, representing insurance clients. With a career spanning nearly thirty years, Tom has consistently delivered excellent legal counsel and favorable outcomes for his clients. Armed with a Juris Doctor from St. Louis University, also with honors, Tom brings a broad, practical base to fulfill his role at Laird Cowley.
What Our Clients Are Saying
“I have recently completed some legal work with Laird Cowley and I found them to be responsive and professional in every respect. When they say “hardworking” and smart it is true. They showed up, got things done, and made sure I received the best possible outcome, 5 stars for sure for Laird Cowley!”
Joseph Carver
Bozeman, MT
Our Approach
Our experience allows us to navigate complex situations with ease. We work collaboratively, utilizing a team approach to draw on our diverse knowledge and strengths, in order to develop effective strategies that yield optimal results.
Our Core Values
Our Core Values are Professionalism, Excellence, Results-Oriented, Experience, and Relationships. We stand by this value system and strive to integrate it into everything we do.
Practice Areas
Commercial Litigation
Commercial disputes can present complex issues and unique risks. To navigate these challenges, you need the guidance of a legal team that has the skills, experience, and knowledge necessary to handle your case proficiently and protect your best interests. Our dedicated team of lawyers will work tirelessly to protect your rights and create a strategy for achieving a positive resolution.Read More »
Personal Injury
If you’re searching for a personal injury attorney in the Rocky Mountain West, Laird Cowley will provide the effective legal representation you need. Whether you’re seeking legal counsel for a workplace accident, wrongful death, product defect, vehicular accident, or another type of personal injury, our attorneys are here to guide and support you every step of the way.Read More »
Insurance Litigation
We can ably provide expert assistance in any insurance-related matter. Our attorneys have the knowledge and skill necessary to generate a positive outcome for your situation. Our services include litigation, mediation, arbitration, routine and ongoing consultation, document preparation, etc. Our commitment to excellence and attention to detail sets us apart.Read More »
Professional Negligence
Negligence cases against licensed professionals are highly complex and require an in-depth understanding of practice standards and the laws that govern them. Our lawyers are well-versed in various industries across the front range and can guide you in selecting the right course of action to successfully resolve disputes and protect your professional career.Read More »
Family Law
We understand that when a client reaches out to us in search of a Montana divorce lawyer or family law attorney, they are often going through difficult and uncertain times. Our legal team is here to provide expert guidance and support when you need it most. We help you make informed decisions and navigate the challenges and changes that lie ahead.Read More »
Employment Law
Employers have a legal and moral responsibility to ensure compliance with fair, safe, and just practices in the workplace. In turn, employees are accountable for following the terms of their employment and acting in a lawful, ethical manner. Laird Cowley advises and represents both employers and employees in employment law matters.Read More »
Workers' Compensation Defense
Our workers’ compensation defense attorneys represent insurance carriers and self-insured employers in complex claims and disputes. We provide strategic guidance and advocacy throughout the workers’ compensation process, with a focus on efficient resolution and protecting our clients’ interests.Read More »
Construction Litigation
Construction lawsuits can lead to serious consequences, causing significant risk and financial strain. Whether your case involves contract disputes, defects, negligence, delays, or payments, our experienced construction litigation team is prepared to protect your interests with skill, precision, and a commitment to achieving favorable outcomes.Read More »
Immigration Law
Immigration issues can deeply affect your life, career, and family. You may fear separation, deportation, or uncertainty about citizenship. Our Montana immigration attorneys offer trusted guidance, helping you find answers, protect your rights, and pursue the outcome you deserve with compassion, clarity, and legal expertise you can count on.Read More »
Business Law
Business matters are often complex, involving contracts, internal policies, procedures, and governance. When disputes arise, it’s critical to understand your legal rights and responsibilities. Our experienced commercial litigation attorneys offer strategic guidance and strong advocacy to help you navigate challenges and achieve the most favorable outcome for your case.Read More »
Our Mission
Our mission is to ensure the fair and just treatment of all individuals and our community as a whole. We strive to make an impact today while also acting as stewards for future generations.
Our Goal is to Earn Your Trust
“I have trusted Cory and the team at Laird Cowley for more than 10-years. They are always responsive and provide excellent legal advice. I routinely refer them to friends, family, and other business owners.”
We're Grateful For Client Referrals
“Jane is diligent, knowledgeable and a strong advocate who looks for practical approaches to solve difficult problems. I have referred clients to her without any hesitation.”
Awards & National Recognition
Laird Cowley is humbled by the awards and recognition we receive from other attorneys, firms, judges, and legal organizations around the country. We were named “Best Law Firm” in U.S. News & World Report for 2022 by Best Lawyers®. We were also nationally recognized by Best Lawyers® for 2024-2026. Best Lawyers® is the only purely peer review guide to the legal profession.
Laird Cowley is also honored to be ranked in Chambers USA 2025, a leading guide to the top law firms and attorneys nationwide based on client feedback and independent research. In addition, Managing Partner Cory R. Laird and Partner Sara S. Berg are individually ranked in Chambers USA for their excellence in practice.
Consult Montana’s Professional Team of Attorneys
Laird Cowley has offices located in Missoula, Montana and Helena, Montana. Our expertise and influence extends throughout Montana, Idaho, North Dakota, South Dakota, Wyoming, and Colorado. We regularly represent clients in Missoula, Helena, Billings, Bozeman, Great Falls, Kalispell, Sidney, Wolf Point, Boise, Coeur d’Alene, Cody, Jackson, Fargo, Bismarck, Casper, and all places in between. Get the expert advice and guidance of Montana’s professional attorneys and legal professionals. Contact the office of Laird Cowley today. Call (406) 541-7400 to speak to a representative about your case or get more information on our services.