South Dakota § 15-39-48 - Plaintiff's statement of claim to clerk--Entry in docket--Signature--Contents--Multiple claims--Beginning of action.
Full text of South Dakota South Dakota Codified Laws § 15-39-48 — Plaintiff's statement of claim to clerk--Entry in docket--Signature--Contents--Multiple claims--Beginning of action., with citation guidance and answers to common questions.
§ 15-39-48. Plaintiff's statement of claim to clerk--Entry in docket--Signature--Contents--Multiple claims--Beginning of action.
The plaintiff initiating the action or the plaintiff's attorney shall complete the information on the small claims form available in the clerk of courts office, and provide a written and signed statement of the cause of action to the clerk who shall docket the action. The statement must contain the facts upon which the claim is based and be accompanied by supporting documents. A cause of action is defined as a claim arising out of the same transaction or incident. Multiple claims or causes of action by multiple parties may be brought against a defendant, or against defendants provided liability is joint and several. The docketing by the clerk shall be deemed the beginning of the action.
Source: SDC 1939 & Supp 1960, § 33.4108; SDCL, § 15-39-8; Supreme Court Rule 81-4; SL 1988, ch 424 (Supreme Court Rule 87-5); Supreme Court Rule 98-29; SL 2001, ch 299 (Supreme Court Rule 01-07).
Source: official South Dakota text · Last verified 2026-08-27
Frequently Asked Questions About South Dakota § 15-39-48
What does South Dakota Codified Laws § 15-39-48 cover?
Section 15-39-48 ("Plaintiff's statement of claim to clerk--Entry in docket--Signature--Contents--Multiple claims--Beginning of action.") 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 § 15-39-48?
A common citation format is "South Dakota Codified Laws § 15-39-48" (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 § 15-39-48 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.