South Dakota § 26-8C-3.1 - Risk assessment instrument for statewide use.
Full text of South Dakota South Dakota Codified Laws § 26-8C-3.1 — Risk assessment instrument for statewide use., with citation guidance and answers to common questions.
§ 26-8C-3.1. Risk assessment instrument for statewide use.
(a) Generally, juveniles should only be held in secure detention when less restrictive placement alternatives are not appropriate. The standardized South Dakota JDAI Risk Assessment Instrument (RAI) is an objective tool used to assess a variety of risk factors relative to the likelihood that a juvenile will appear in court or re-offend on a delinquent act prior to his/her court appearance. The RAI is based upon best practice standards that have been tested and implemented in other JDAI jurisdictions across the nation. The overall risk score is a guide in making the initial decision whether to detain in secure detention, utilize an alternative to secure detention, or release with or without conditions pending hearing.
(b) As per the authority designated in subdivision 26-7A-1(20), the presiding judge in each circuit shall appoint juvenile detention staff or juvenile reception and intake center staff to serve as intake officers.
(c) The State Court Administrator's Office shall provide statewide training on use of the RAI. After the completion of RAI training, all appointed Intake Officers shall complete the RAI on all detention intakes to distinguish between juveniles who are likely to abscond or commit new crimes and those who are not.
(d) The State Court Administrator's Office shall compile the following data to be collected by any court appointed intake officer: The number of juveniles detained and released shall be reported along with each juvenile's gender, race, ethnicity, age and offense as well as all assessment information including staff decision, overrides and program information.
Source: SL 2015, ch 276 (Supreme Court Rule 15-14), eff. July 1, 2015.
Source: official South Dakota text · Last verified 2026-08-27
Frequently Asked Questions About South Dakota § 26-8C-3.1
What does South Dakota Codified Laws § 26-8C-3.1 cover?
Section 26-8C-3.1 ("Risk assessment instrument for statewide use.") 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 § 26-8C-3.1?
A common citation format is "South Dakota Codified Laws § 26-8C-3.1" (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 § 26-8C-3.1 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.