South Dakota § 25-4A-11 - Plaintiff in custody action to file and serve guidelines--Guidelines as court order--Custody of minors.
Full text of South Dakota South Dakota Codified Laws § 25-4A-11 — Plaintiff in custody action to file and serve guidelines--Guidelines as court order--Custody of minors., with citation guidance and answers to common questions.
§ 25-4A-11. Plaintiff in custody action to file and serve guidelines--Guidelines as court order--Custody of minors.
Upon the filing of a summons and complaint for divorce or separate maintenance or any other custody action or proceeding, the plaintiff shall also file and serve upon the defendant a copy of the standard guidelines. The standard guidelines attached to the summons shall become an order of the court upon fulfillment of the requirements of service. Any minor child of the marriage shall remain in the custody of the parent who has been the primary caregiver for the minor child for the majority of time in the twelve months preceding the filing of the summons and complaint, unless the parties agree otherwise. The standard guidelines shall apply and continue in effect, unless the parties agree, or the court orders otherwise. Imposition of the standard guidelines creates no presumption as to who may be awarded custody at any hearing.
Source: SL 2002, ch 125, § 3; SL 2008, ch 127, § 1.
Source: official South Dakota text · Last verified 2026-08-27
Frequently Asked Questions About South Dakota § 25-4A-11
What does South Dakota Codified Laws § 25-4A-11 cover?
Section 25-4A-11 ("Plaintiff in custody action to file and serve guidelines--Guidelines as court order--Custody of minors.") 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 § 25-4A-11?
A common citation format is "South Dakota Codified Laws § 25-4A-11" (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 § 25-4A-11 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.