South Dakota § 27A-15-1 - Definition of terms.
Full text of South Dakota South Dakota Codified Laws § 27A-15-1 — Definition of terms., with citation guidance and answers to common questions.
§ 27A-15-1. Definition of terms.
Terms used in this chapter mean:
(1) "Clinical evaluation," an evaluation of the minor to determine the appropriateness of admission to an inpatient psychiatric facility or continued inpatient treatment. The evaluation shall include a personal interview with the minor and parent, guardian, or other legal custodian, an examination of all relevant available records, a mental status examination of the minor, relevant social history information, and an examination of the medical, psychological, social, behavioral, educational, and developmental aspects of the minor's situation, including a full probe of the minor's background utilizing all relevant educational, treatment, and other public and private service provider sources;
(2) "Independent clinical evaluation," a clinical evaluation of the minor performed by a qualified mental health professional who:
(a) Is not currently involved in the diagnosis, treatment, or provision of services to the minor;
(b) Is not an employee of the facility to which admission of the minor is sought or to which the minor has been admitted; and
(c) Will not receive monetary benefit by the minor's admission to or continued stay in an inpatient psychiatric facility;
(3) "Minor," a person under eighteen years of age except that for purposes of this title, the term does not include a person who is emancipated under Title 26 or who is married. Any person not included within this definition of minor shall come under this title's provisions which apply to adults;
(4) "Parent," a biological or adoptive parent who has legal custody of the minor, including either parent if the parents have joint legal custody;
(5) "Psychiatric evaluation," an examination conducted by a psychiatrist which includes the history of present illness, past history of medical and psychiatric illness, pertinent psychosocial history, and a mental status examination that enables the formulation of a diagnostic summary.
Source: SL 1991, ch 220, § 291; SL 1994, ch 255, § 1; SL 2000, ch 129, § 18.
Source: official South Dakota text · Last verified 2026-08-27
Frequently Asked Questions About South Dakota § 27A-15-1
What does South Dakota Codified Laws § 27A-15-1 cover?
Section 27A-15-1 ("Definition of terms.") 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-15-1?
A common citation format is "South Dakota Codified Laws § 27A-15-1" (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 § 27A-15-1 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.