South Dakota § 29A-5-208 - Hearing--Convenience--Participants--Determination of appointment--Findings and conclusions.
Full text of South Dakota South Dakota Codified Laws § 29A-5-208 — Hearing--Convenience--Participants--Determination of appointment--Findings and conclusions., with citation guidance and answers to common questions.
§ 29A-5-208. Hearing--Convenience--Participants--Determination of appointment--Findings and conclusions.
The hearing on the petition to appoint a guardian or conservator shall be held at such convenient place as the court directs, including the place where the minor is located. The court may close the hearing to the public. The minor, if age ten or older, and the proposed guardian or conservator shall attend the hearing except for good cause shown. Any individual or entity may apply for permission to participate at the hearing, and the court shall grant the request if reasonably satisfied that the applicant's participation would be in the minor's best interests.
The determination as to whether a guardian or conservator will be appointed is for the court alone to decide and may only be ordered if in the minor's best interests. In making that determination, the court shall consider the suitability of the proposed guardian or conservator, the minor's current or proposed living arrangements, the extent to which the minor has money or other property requiring management or protection, the availability of less restrictive alternatives, the extent to which it is necessary to protect the minor from neglect, exploitation, or abuse, and if applicable, the minor's need for habilitation or therapeutic treatment.
The court shall make findings of fact and conclusions of law in support of any orders entered at the hearing if requested by the minor, by the minor's attorney, or by any other interested person.
Upon the filing of an acceptance of office and any required bond, letters of guardianship, conservatorship, or both, shall issue.
Source: SL 1993, ch 213, § 26; SDCL 30-36-26; SL 1995, ch 167, § 181.
Source: official South Dakota text · Last verified 2026-08-27
Frequently Asked Questions About South Dakota § 29A-5-208
What does South Dakota Codified Laws § 29A-5-208 cover?
Section 29A-5-208 ("Hearing--Convenience--Participants--Determination of appointment--Findings and conclusions.") 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 § 29A-5-208?
A common citation format is "South Dakota Codified Laws § 29A-5-208" (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 § 29A-5-208 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.