South Dakota § 21-27-16 - Causes for discharge of applicant committed on judicial process.
Full text of South Dakota South Dakota Codified Laws § 21-27-16 — Causes for discharge of applicant committed on judicial process., with citation guidance and answers to common questions.
§ 21-27-16. Causes for discharge of applicant committed on judicial process.
If it appears on the return of a writ of habeas corpus that the applicant is in custody by virtue of process from any court legally constituted, he can be discharged only for one or more of the following causes:
(1) When the court has exceeded the limit of its jurisdiction, either as to the matter, place, sum, or person;
(2) Where, though the original imprisonment was lawful, yet by some act, omission, or event, which has subsequently taken place, the party has become entitled to his discharge;
(3) Where the process is defective in some substantial form required by law;
(4) Where the process, though in proper form, has been issued in a case or under circumstances where the laws do not allow process or orders for imprisonment or arrest to issue;
(5) When, although in proper form, the process has been issued or executed by a person either unauthorized to issue or execute the same, or where the person having the custody of the applicant, under the process, is not the person empowered by law to detain him;
(6) Where the process appears to have been obtained by fraud, false pretense, or bribery;
(7) Where there is no general law nor any judgment, order, or decree of a court to authorize the process, if in a civil suit, nor any conviction, if in a criminal proceeding.
Source: CCrimP 1877, § 673; CL 1887, § 7841; RCCrimP 1903, § 773; SL 1915, ch 145; RC 1919, § 4980; SDC 1939 & Supp 1960, § 37.5504.
Source: official South Dakota text · Last verified 2026-08-27
Frequently Asked Questions About South Dakota § 21-27-16
What does South Dakota Codified Laws § 21-27-16 cover?
Section 21-27-16 ("Causes for discharge of applicant committed on judicial process.") 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 § 21-27-16?
A common citation format is "South Dakota Codified Laws § 21-27-16" (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 § 21-27-16 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.