South Dakota § 27A-12-3.19 - Personal appearance at hearing not compulsory--Presenting evidence.
Full text of South Dakota South Dakota Codified Laws § 27A-12-3.19 — Personal appearance at hearing not compulsory--Presenting evidence., with citation guidance and answers to common questions.
§ 27A-12-3.19. Personal appearance at hearing not compulsory--Presenting evidence.
The person may appear personally at any hearing and testify on his or her own behalf, but the person may not be compelled to do so. The person may subpoena and cross-examine witnesses and present evidence. If the person chooses not to appear, the person's attorney shall state on the record that the person has been informed of the hearing and of the right to appear and the person chooses not to exercise that right. Documentation of the reasons for the person's decision are not required. The court or the board of mental illness may exclude any person not necessary for the conduct of the proceedings from the hearings, except any person requested to be present by the patient.
Source: SL 1989, ch 237, § 6; SL 1991, ch 220, § 213; SDCL § 27A-12-11.8; SL 2012, ch 149, § 39.
Source: official South Dakota text · Last verified 2026-08-27
Frequently Asked Questions About South Dakota § 27A-12-3.19
What does South Dakota Codified Laws § 27A-12-3.19 cover?
Section 27A-12-3.19 ("Personal appearance at hearing not compulsory--Presenting evidence.") 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 § 27A-12-3.19?
A common citation format is "South Dakota Codified Laws § 27A-12-3.19" (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 § 27A-12-3.19 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.