South Dakota § 34-23A-7.1 - Abortion without notification--Participation and representation of female--Confidentiality--Appeal of denial.
Full text of South Dakota South Dakota Codified Laws § 34-23A-7.1 — Abortion without notification--Participation and representation of female--Confidentiality--Appeal of denial., with citation guidance and answers to common questions.
§ 34-23A-7.1. Abortion without notification--Participation and representation of female--Confidentiality--Appeal of denial.
In any proceeding pursuant to subdivision 34-23A-7(1) or 34-23A-7(3), the pregnant female may participate in proceedings in the court on her own behalf, and the court may appoint a guardian ad litem for her. The court shall, however, advise her that she has a right to court- appointed counsel and shall, upon her request, provide her with such counsel. Proceedings in the court under subdivision 34-23A-7(1) or 34-23A-7(3) shall be confidential and shall be given such precedence over other pending matters so that the court may reach a decision promptly and without delay so as to serve the best interests of the pregnant female. A judge of the court who conducts proceedings under subdivision 34-23A-7(1) or 34-23A-7(3) shall make in writing specific factual findings and legal conclusions supporting the decision and shall order a record of the evidence to be maintained including the judge's own findings and conclusions.
An expedited confidential appeal shall be available to any such pregnant female for whom the court denies an order authorizing an abortion without notification. An order authorizing an abortion without notification is not subject to appeal. No filing fees are required of any such pregnant female at either the trial or the appellate level. Access to the trial court for the purposes of such a petition or motion, and access to the appellate courts for purposes of making an appeal from denial of the same, shall be afforded such a pregnant female twenty-four hours a day, seven days a week. Notwithstanding any other provision of law, all pleadings, papers, and other documents filed pursuant to this section are confidential, are not public records, and are not open for inspection by any member of the public for any purpose.
Source: SL 1997, ch 204, § 3; SL 2005, ch 189, § 2.
Source: official South Dakota text · Last verified 2026-08-27
Frequently Asked Questions About South Dakota § 34-23A-7.1
What does South Dakota Codified Laws § 34-23A-7.1 cover?
Section 34-23A-7.1 ("Abortion without notification--Participation and representation of female--Confidentiality--Appeal of denial.") 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 § 34-23A-7.1?
A common citation format is "South Dakota Codified Laws § 34-23A-7.1" (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 § 34-23A-7.1 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.