South Dakota § 19-1-3 - Attorney as witness.
Full text of South Dakota South Dakota Codified Laws § 19-1-3 — Attorney as witness., with citation guidance and answers to common questions.
§ 19-1-3. Attorney as witness.
When an attorney is a witness for his client upon any trial except as to merely formal matters such as the attestation or custody of an instrument or the like, he shall not further participate in such trial. This section shall not apply when such attorney's testimony is offered in answer to evidence received on behalf of the other party and it shall appear to the satisfaction of the court that such attorney had no reason to anticipate the necessity of his being a witness. Neither shall this section apply to state's attorneys and the attorney general and their deputies when engaged in the discharge of official duties.
Source: Supreme Court Rule, Part 2, Rule 29, 1919; Supreme Court Rule 500, 1939; SDC 1939 & Supp 1960, § 36.0107.
Source: official South Dakota text · Last verified 2026-08-27
Frequently Asked Questions About South Dakota § 19-1-3
What does South Dakota Codified Laws § 19-1-3 cover?
Section 19-1-3 ("Attorney as witness.") 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 § 19-1-3?
A common citation format is "South Dakota Codified Laws § 19-1-3" (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 § 19-1-3 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.