Peter Lacny

Peter Lacny is a partner at McFarland Molloy Lacny & Duerk in Missoula, Montana. Lacny represents clients in state and federal criminal defense and related civil and professional matters. The practice includes white collar and federal defense, criminal trials, appeals, licensing defense, professional liability, civil litigation, Title IX defense, and firearms matters. Lacny works with individuals and professionals facing criminal, regulatory, disciplinary, or civil proceedings.

Lacny earned a B.A. in History from Montana State University in 2002 and a J.D. with honors from the University of Montana School of Law in 2006. His legal education led directly into criminal practice and later a broader litigation role involving both trial and appellate work. This training supports the research, analysis, writing, and problem solving required in matters involving detailed records and important client decisions.

Lacny’s experience includes state and federal criminal trials, acquittals, appeals, professional discipline, student disciplinary matters, and civil litigation. In addition, Lacny serves on federal Criminal Justice Act panels in Montana and Alaska and has held a lawyer-representative role within the Ninth Circuit. The practice involves evaluating charges, testing evidence, preparing motions, negotiating when appropriate, and preparing thoroughly for trial. This experience supports careful judgment and clear communication throughout each stage of a legal matter.

Peter Lacny has received recognition from the ACLU of Montana and has been listed by Super Lawyers and Best Lawyers. Lacny combines trial, appellate, and professional-discipline experience to represent clients in matters where liberty, licensing, reputation, or substantial rights are at stake. The focus remains on protecting client rights, explaining realistic options, and preparing each case for negotiation, motions, or trial. This experience supports careful judgment and clear communication throughout each stage of a legal matter.

Law Office Affiliations

• Partner, McFarland Molloy Lacny & Duerk
• Member, State Bar of Montana
• Lawyer Representative, Ninth Circuit Judicial Conference (2023-2026)
• Past President and Life Member, Montana Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers
• Fellow, American College of Trial Lawyers
• Life Member, National Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers
• Member, Montana Trial Lawyers Association
• Member, Federal Bar Association
• Member, District of Montana and Alaska Criminal Justice Act Panels
• Member, Ninth Circuit’s Standing Committee on Federal Public Defenders (2024-2026)

Licensed State

• Montana

Education

• University of Montana School of Law
  Juris Doctor (JD)
• Montana State University
  Bachelor of Arts (BA) in History

Awards & Badges