South Dakota § 16-18-21 - Attorney's lien on proceeds of action.
Full text of South Dakota South Dakota Codified Laws § 16-18-21 — Attorney's lien on proceeds of action., with citation guidance and answers to common questions.
§ 16-18-21. Attorney's lien on proceeds of action.
An attorney and counselor at law has a lien for a general balance of compensation in and for each case upon:
(1) Any paper belonging to his client which has come into his hands in the course of his professional employment in the case for which the lien is claimed;
(2) Money in his hands belonging to his client in the case;
(3) Money due his client in the hands of the adverse party or attorney of such party, in an action or proceeding in which the attorney claiming the lien was employed, from the time of giving notice in writing to such adverse party or attorney of such party, if the money is in the possession or under the control of such attorney, which notice shall state the amount claimed and in general terms for what services; after judgment in any court of record such notice may be given and the lien made effective against the judgment debtor by entering it in the judgment docket.
Source: PolC 1877, ch 18, § 9; CL 1887, § 470; RPolC 1903, § 702; RC 1919, § 5266; SDC 1939 & Supp 1960, § 32.1205; SL 1983, ch 157, § 3.
Source: official South Dakota text · Last verified 2026-08-27
Frequently Asked Questions About South Dakota § 16-18-21
What does South Dakota Codified Laws § 16-18-21 cover?
Section 16-18-21 ("Attorney's lien on proceeds 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 § 16-18-21?
A common citation format is "South Dakota Codified Laws § 16-18-21" (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 § 16-18-21 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.