Get Legal Help

A legal proceeding can present significant challenges for individuals, and obtaining legal assistance may be the best step for you to take. South Dakota has legal assistance options available that offer little to no-cost for individuals who meet certain income requirements.

Application for Court-Appointed Attorney

If you feel that you are financially unable to afford a lawyer, you may complete the application linked below, which asks the Court to appoint counsel to represent you in a criminal action. You must be charged with a crime to use this application; the Court will not appoint an attorney to represent you in a civil trial.

South Dakota Law Help

Individuals seeking legal assistance in South Dakota may apply online through South Dakota’s statewide online intake portal at: SD Law Help

To apply online on the SD Law Help website, click on the “Apply for Help” button, scroll down, and then click on the "Start Application" button. Once you submit your online application, SD Law Help will automatically forward your application to the most appropriate legal services program based upon the information you provide on the online application.

Your online application will be automatically forwarded to one of the following legal services programs:

East River Legal Services

335 North Main Avenue #300

Sioux Falls, SD 57102

(605) 336-9230

Toll Free: 800-952-3015

 

Dakota Plains Legal Services

Main Office: 160 2nd Street

Mission, SD 57555

(605) 856-4444

 

Access to Justice 

111 West Capitol Avenue #1

Pierre, SD 57501

(855) 287-3510

Related Topics for Getting Legal Help

Get Legal Help

A legal proceeding can present significant challenges for individuals, and obtaining legal assistance may be the best step for you to take. South Dakota has legal assistance options available that offer little to no-cost for individuals who meet certain income requirements.

Civil Law Help

Get informed on civil law procedures in South Dakota, from subpoenas and evictions to name changes, housing law and protection orders. Prepare effectively for your court appearances.

Criminal Law Help

Criminal law defines actions that are threatening, harmful, or endangering to the property, health, safety, and moral welfare of people. It also includes the punishment of people who violate criminal laws.