South Dakota § 21-16-7 - Time for appearance by defendant.
Full text of South Dakota South Dakota Codified Laws § 21-16-7 — Time for appearance by defendant., with citation guidance and answers to common questions.
§ 21-16-7. Time for appearance by defendant.
The time for appearance and pleading shall be five days from the time of service on the defendant or thirty days after the publication of service under § 21-16-6.1, whichever occurs sooner. No adjournment or continuance shall be made for more than fourteen days, unless the defendant applying therefor shall give an undertaking to the plaintiff with good and sufficient surety to be approved by the court, conditioned for the payment of the rent that may accrue, together with costs if judgment be rendered against the defendant.
Source: JustC 1877, § 38; CL 1887, § 6077; RJustC 1903, § 48; RC 1919, § 2175; Supreme Court Rule 597, 1939; SDC 1939, § 37.3907; Court Rule adopted September 29, 1945; SL 2020, ch 74, § 3; SL 2024, ch 75, § 2.
Source: official South Dakota text · Last verified 2026-08-27
Frequently Asked Questions About South Dakota § 21-16-7
What does South Dakota Codified Laws § 21-16-7 cover?
Section 21-16-7 ("Time for appearance by defendant.") 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 § 21-16-7?
A common citation format is "South Dakota Codified Laws § 21-16-7" (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 § 21-16-7 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.