South Dakota § 23A-51-1 - Definitions.
Full text of South Dakota South Dakota Codified Laws § 23A-51-1 — Definitions., with citation guidance and answers to common questions.
§ 23A-51-1. Definitions.
The terms used in this chapter mean:
(1) "Attorney," a person licensed to practice law in this state as provided in chapter 16-16, with active membership and in good standing of the State Bar of South Dakota;
(2) "Chief defender," the attorney appointed by the commission to head the Office of Indigent Legal Services;
(3) "Commission," the Commission of Indigent Legal Services;
(4) "Effective assistance of counsel," legal defense services in a criminal case that comply with the standards required by state and federal law;
(5) "Indigent," a person who does not have sufficient money, credit, or property to employ an attorney and pay for the necessary expenses of representation;
(6) "Indigent representation services," legal defense services provided by an attorney to an indigent person where there is a right to counsel under state or federal law;
(7) "Office of Indigent Legal Services," or "office," a state government entity that provides direct indigent representation services and implements the objectives of the commission;
(8) "Private appointed attorney," an attorney who is not employed by the government and who provides indigent representation services; and
(9) "Public defender," an attorney employed by the government who provides indigent representation services.
Source: SL 2024, ch 95, § 1, eff. Mar. 18, 2024.
Frequently Asked Questions About South Dakota § 23A-51-1
What does South Dakota Codified Laws § 23A-51-1 cover?
Section 23A-51-1 ("Definitions.") 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 § 23A-51-1?
A common citation format is "South Dakota Codified Laws § 23A-51-1" (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 § 23A-51-1 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.