South Dakota § 22-18-5 - Reasonable force used by parent, guardian, or teacher in correcting child, pupil, or ward.
Full text of South Dakota South Dakota Codified Laws § 22-18-5 — Reasonable force used by parent, guardian, or teacher in correcting child, pupil, or ward., with citation guidance and answers to common questions.
§ 22-18-5. Reasonable force used by parent, guardian, or teacher in correcting child, pupil, or ward.
To use or attempt to use or offer to use force upon or toward the person of another is not unlawful if committed by a parent or the authorized agent of any parent, or by any guardian, teacher, or other school official, in the exercise of a lawful authority to restrain or correct the child, pupil, or ward and if restraint or correction has been rendered necessary by the misconduct of the child, pupil, or ward, or by the child's refusal to obey the lawful command of such parent, or authorized agent, guardian, teacher, or other school official, and the force used is reasonable in manner and moderate in degree.
Source: SDC 1939, § 13.2402 (4); SL 1976, ch 158, § 18-3; SL 1977, ch 189, § 48; SL 1990, ch 128, § 2; SL 2005, ch 120, § 9.
Source: official South Dakota text · Last verified 2026-08-27
Frequently Asked Questions About South Dakota § 22-18-5
What does South Dakota Codified Laws § 22-18-5 cover?
Section 22-18-5 ("Reasonable force used by parent, guardian, or teacher in correcting child, pupil, or ward.") is part of the South Dakota Codified Laws, the codified statutory law of South Dakota. It sets out the legal rule or procedure described in the text above. Statutes are amended regularly, so always verify against the official source.
How do I cite South Dakota § 22-18-5?
A common citation format is "South Dakota Codified Laws § 22-18-5" (South Dakota). Legal writing may require the code abbreviation, section number, and year or edition. Match the style required by your court, professor, or publisher.
Is this the official text of South Dakota law?
No. This page is for research and education and may not include the most recent amendments. For official current law, check the South Dakota official source linked on this page or consult a licensed South Dakota attorney.
How does South Dakota § 22-18-5 apply to my situation?
Statutes are interpreted in context, and application depends on your specific facts. Only a licensed attorney in South Dakota can advise on how this section applies to you. Contact your state or local bar association for a referral.
Sources & Verification
Not legal advice. Verify against the official source and consult a licensed attorney in South Dakota.