Resources for Understanding Your Legal Rights as a Survivor in South Dakota
Legal and Justice Support
You have rights. Help is available.
Experiencing domestic violence, dating violence, sexual assault, or stalking can affect many parts of your life—your safety, your family, your housing, your finances, and your future. You are not alone, and you do not have to figure this out by yourself.
Legal and justice supports are available to help you understand your options and make decisions that feel right for you.
An advocate can help you connect with legal resources, explain processes, and support you no matter what you choose.
Your Rights
You have the right to:
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Be treated with dignity and respect
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Ask questions and receive clear information
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Seek legal help without cost for many services
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Decide whether or not to participate in the legal system
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Have an advocate support you during legal or court processes
You can access many legal services without reporting to law enforcement.
Learn more about your rights: Download your Marsy’s Rights card to keep important legal rights handy.
Civil Legal Assistance for Survivors
For survivors who need civil legal assistance related to:
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Domestic violence
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Dating violence
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Sexual assault
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Stalking
These services are free to survivors, depending on availability of resources.
Please note:
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Court filing fees or other costs may still apply
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There is no guarantee an attorney can take a case
Legal issues may include:
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Custody and parenting time
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Divorce or separation
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Protection orders
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Housing or employment issues
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Other civil legal matters related to abuse
East of the Missouri River:
Survivors living east of the Missouri River may be eligible for services. For more information or to request a referral, please contact your local domestic violence shelter or agency, or call The Network at 605-731-0041.
West of the Missouri River:
Survivors living west of the Missouri River may apply for services through Working Against Violence, Inc. (WAVI) in Rapid City. To apply, please contact WAVI at 605-341-3292.
Protection Order Information
A protection order is an order granted by the court that prohibits contact by one party with another person. The purpose of this information form is to gather information on incidences that may warrant the need for a protection order.
More Information about Protection Orders:
How Protection Orders Work (English)
How Protection Orders Work (Spanish)
Protection Order Fast Facts (English)
Protection Order Fast Facts (Spanish)