South Dakota § 22-16-5 - Premeditated design to effect the death defined.
Full text of South Dakota South Dakota Codified Laws § 22-16-5 — Premeditated design to effect the death defined., with citation guidance and answers to common questions.
§ 22-16-5. Premeditated design to effect the death defined.
The term, premeditated design to effect the death, means an intention, purpose, or determination to kill or take the life of the person killed, distinctly formed and existing in the mind of the perpetrator before committing the act resulting in the death of the person killed. A premeditated design to effect death sufficient to constitute murder may be formed instantly before committing the act.
Source: SDC 1939, § 13.2008; SL 1978, ch 158, § 8; SL 2005, ch 120, § 155.
Source: official South Dakota text · Last verified 2026-08-27
Frequently Asked Questions About South Dakota § 22-16-5
What does South Dakota Codified Laws § 22-16-5 cover?
Section 22-16-5 ("Premeditated design to effect the death defined.") 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 § 22-16-5?
A common citation format is "South Dakota Codified Laws § 22-16-5" (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 § 22-16-5 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.