Description

Public defenders are provided individuals who cannot afford an attorney for criminal cases, including both magistrate and circuit court, abuse and neglect cases, juvenile matters, mental health committals, and alcohol committals. Applications for counsel are available at the Clerk of Courts Office or online. If a Judge determines an individual meets the financial qualifications for a court-appointed attorney, an attorney will be assigned. Court-appointed attorney rates for the state of South Dakota are reviewed and set by the South Dakota Supreme Court on an annual basis. Clients will be billed at an hourly rate of $100.00, and reimbursement for such services may be ordered pursuant to the provisions of SDCL 23A-40-10.

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