Guide to Representing Yourself in Court
The South Dakota Unified Judicial System (UJS) has developed the Guide to Representing Yourself in South Dakota Courts to provide an overview of how the court system works in the state and to provide important information for representing yourself in court.
Prepare Forms Online Guide and File
While it is not mandatory for someone who is self-represented, the Guide and File system will help you create the documents you need to request for an Order to Show Cause. You will answer a series of questions that will then generate completed forms for you to print. Forms for requesting an Order to Show Cause can also be found below for you to print and complete if you do not wish to use this system.
Order to Show Cause Documents
ALL FORMS MUST BE PRINTED SINGLE-SIDED AND COMPLETED IN BLACK INK
You will need Adobe Acrobat Reader installed to view these forms. If you do not have Adobe Reader, click here to download.
To Download PDF documents right click on the link. This should pop up a menu. Select option "Save Link As" or "Save Target As". Locate where the document needs to be saved and click the Save button.
UJS-356 Instructions for Order to Show Cause
Detailed instructions for requesting an Order to Show Cause in South Dakota, explaining how to enforce court orders, complete forms, and prepare for hearings.
English
UJS-232 Case Filing Statement
Form for South Dakota case filing, collecting personal and business details, legal representation, and case type specifics for record-keeping.
English
UJS-357 Motion and Affidavit for Order to Show Cause
A form used to request an Order to Show Cause in South Dakota, outlining allegations of non-compliance with a court order and providing a sworn affidavit for action.
English
UJS-358 Order to Show Cause
A court-issued template for an Order to Show Cause in South Dakota, mandating a party's appearance to explain non-compliance with prior court orders or face sanctions.
English
UJS-353 Order Granting or Denying Contempt of Court
A legal form for South Dakota courts to officially grant or deny contempt findings, addressing non-compliance with prior court orders based on presented evidence.
English
Order to Show Cause Print All Packet
A combined packet of the forms listed above for filing of an Order to Show Cause.
English