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. Apply for a court appointed attorney in a criminal matter or submit a request for legal assistance in a civil matter that offers 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
Toll Free: 800-952-3015
Dakota Plains Legal Services
Main Office: 160 2nd Street
Mission, SD 57555
Access to Justice
111 West Capitol Avenue #1
Pierre, SD 57501
South Dakota Office of Indigent Legal Services
The South Dakota Office of Indigent Legal Services is a statewide agency responsible for managing indigent defense services in the state's court system. The office provides indigent representation services in appeals of cases involving a crime, habeas corpus, or abuse or neglect of a child.
South Dakota Office of Indigent Legal Services
PO Box 88237
Sioux Falls, SD 57109
Phone: 605-362-2759
Email: christopher.miles@state.sd.us
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. Apply for a court appointed attorney in a criminal matter or submit a request for legal assistance in a civil matter that offers 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.