Meet Lieutenant Governor Kristen Juras

A fourth-generation Montanan who grew up on her family’s ranch near Conrad, Kristen Juras is a wife, mother, grandmother, attorney, and public servant. On November 3, 2020, Kristen became the second female elected lieutenant governor of Montana in the state’s history.

Lieutenant Governor Kristen Juras serves as a partner to Governor Greg Gianforte as they lead the Montana Comeback.

Kristen has broken the traditional mold of the office of lieutenant governor. One news story revealed “her performance of the lieutenant governor’s role is also unique, particularly in a position that is often seen as more ceremonial than substantive.“

Kristen leads the governor’s Red Tape Relief Task Force to cut unnecessary, burdensome regulations that are a wet blanket on job creation and hamper small business owners, farmers, and ranchers. Kristen plays a key role in policymaking, and is actively involved in appointments to boards, commissions, and judicial vacancies.

Before entering public service, Kristen Juras served for 32 years as an attorney in private practice in Great Falls where she helped farmers, ranchers, and small business owners navigate legal issues.

As an attorney, Kristen Juras provided pro bono legal services to clients with disabilities who confront homelessness and addiction. Kristen received the Robert P. Goff Pro Bono Award in recognition of her commitment to pro bono legal services.

In 2000, Kristen joined the faculty at the University of Montana School of Law, teaching classes in property, contracts, estate planning, taxation, business, international, and agricultural law.

Kristen Juras graduated from Conrad High School, the University of Montana, and the University of Georgia Law School.

Married since 1984, Kristen and her husband John are the proud parents to three sons and grandparents to two grandchildren.