South Dakota § 19-5-12 - Punishment for contempt by witness.
Full text of South Dakota South Dakota Codified Laws § 19-5-12 — Punishment for contempt by witness., with citation guidance and answers to common questions.
§ 19-5-12. Punishment for contempt by witness.
The punishment for the contempt described in § 19-5-8 shall be as follows: when the witness fails to attend, in obedience to the subpoena, except in case of demand and failure to pay his fees, the court or officer may fine the witness in a sum not exceeding fifty dollars. In other cases the court or officer may fine a witness in a sum not exceeding fifty nor less than five dollars, or may imprison him in the county jail, there to remain until he shall submit to be sworn, testify, or give his deposition.
Source: CCivP 1877, § 455; CL 1887, § 5269; RCCivP 1903, § 495; RC 1919, § 2742; SDC 1939 & Supp 1960, § 36.0306.
Source: official South Dakota text · Last verified 2026-08-27
Frequently Asked Questions About South Dakota § 19-5-12
What does South Dakota Codified Laws § 19-5-12 cover?
Section 19-5-12 ("Punishment for contempt by 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 § 19-5-12?
A common citation format is "South Dakota Codified Laws § 19-5-12" (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 § 19-5-12 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.