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State Bar of South Dakota July 2026

President’s Corner

Young Lawyers Section

r e t t e l s New

John W. Burke

Lora Waeckerle

10 Dean’s List: News From The Law School Neil Fulton

44 Never Assume “It’s All Good” When Purchasing a Law Practice Mark Bassingthwaighte

July 2026 Law For Lunch

A2J Justice Squad

15 Announcements 16 Congratulations to the 2026 Award Recipients 17 2026 Bankruptcy & Debtor-Creditor CLE 18 2026 Annual Convention Recap 20 South Dakota Bar Foundation Meeting Minutes 24 Law Day Event 25 South Dakota Community Foundation 26 Judgment of Public Censure #31458 34 Ed Evan’s McKusick Award Acceptance Speech 38 Report on 2026 Ask-A-Lawyer Program 52 In Memoriam 54 Career Center 64 Lawyers Assistance Program Leadership Transition Announcement Statements and expressions of opinion appearing in the Newsletter are those of the advertisers or authors. Unless specifically stated, they are not the official position or view of the State Bar of South Dakota, its officers, commissioners, or staff, and they do not necessarily represent the views of all members of the State Bar of South Dakota. Publication of advertisements 3 is not to be considered an endorsement of the product or service advertised. Contributions to the Newsletter are welcome, and the State Bar reserves all rights to select material to be published. Content must be germane to the law, lawyers, the practice of law, the courts and judicial system, legal education, or the State Bar of South Dakota.

President's CORNER

John W. Burke As I write this, the United States of America celebrates the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence on July 4, 1776. This anniversary is an important milestone of which every American should be proud. Two hundred fifty years is both a long time and not very long at all.

III)—and its system of checks and balances, is second to none. But we must not take it for granted. While the Constitution and its Amendments provide a seemingly perfect form of government, the Histomap warns that it cannot be viewed as infallible—and might instead be more wisely treated as fragile. Our Constitution has allowed America to be a shining example of what I once read about a chart that former United States President Abraham Lincoln described as a “government Senator Mitt Romney kept on the wall of his Senate of the people, by the people, for the people” in his office. The chart, labeled “The Histomap” and published Gettysburg Address. However, America’s true longby Rand McNally nearly a century ago (1931), set forth term stability is reliant upon us citizens exhibiting a timeline of various civilizations going back to 2,000 an unwavering commitment to the rule of law and B.C.—some 4,000 years. The chart is fascinating in honoring this system of checks and balances. several respects; however, two things grasp the observer. This takes me to our role as attorneys. Regardless The first is glaring. As one perceives the many of our individual political philosophies, I think we can civilizations that have risen and fallen, it is apparent agree that we should do more than simply honor the that America is fairly young. Indeed, despite that nearly rule of law and zealously represent our clients. We one hundred years have passed since the Histomap not only took an oath to “support the Constitution of was published and America now celebrates its 250th the United States and the Constitution of the State of birthday, this is still true. For frame of reference, my South Dakota,” when we were admitted to practice, we dad (Darrel) turned eighty-two years old last month, also committed to “maintain the respect due to courts making him nearly one-third as old as our seemingly of justice and judicial officers.” The time to honor our eonian America. But the Byzantine Empire existed for pledge is more relevant than ever as attacks on the 1,123 years; the Holy Roman Empire spanned just over legal system have become far too commonplace. We 1,000 years; and the Ottoman Empire survived for over should—at every opportunity—explain the importance 600 years. This really drives home for me how young of the rule of law in America, the safety and security the America is at 250 years. rule of law assures to each of its citizens, and why our system of checks and balances must be kept sacred. The second is somewhat more subtle. The rule of law set forth in our Constitution, particularly its division We should also not condone attacks on the judiciary of power among three separate branches—legislative or tolerate insults of judges. However passionate one (Article I), executive (Article II), and judicial (Article may feel about a particular case or ruling, attacking and 4

undermining the judiciary, including acts of defiance or disregard, are never the answer. Short-term fervor must yield to long-term reliability.

In recent years, judges have faced escalating personal and political attacks, including threats to their safety, aimed at intimidating the judiciary and influencing court decisions. These attacks jeopardize not only individual judges, but also the integrity of the American legal system.

At the recent Bar Convention, Edwin E. Evans commented on the important role that the judiciary plays in the rule of law and the dangers posed when it is attacked. He shared his remarks after receiving the Marshall M. McKusick Award from the Student Bar Association of the University of South Dakota Knudson School of Law. Because I felt that his thoughts were insightful, I asked Mr. Evans for his permission to restate them here. I will leave you with his words:

Attacking judges through unfair rhetoric or harassment creates a chilling effect that deters independent decision-making and weakens public trust in the courts’ ability to act without fear or favor. Judicial rulings are based on a judge’s application of the law and the Constitution.

I did not know Marshall McKusick personally, but only by reputation. I wonder what he would think about the attacks on the rule of law today.

Disagreements may arise, but our legal system has the capacity to resolve them. The proper way to challenge a ruling is to appeal it. Defiance of a court order – whether by individuals, institutions, or elected officials – erodes the rule of law and signals that compliance with judicial decisions is optional and not obligatory. This undermines the courts’ authority and the principle of equal justice under the law.

Our profession underscores that, above all, the Constitution is grounded in the importance of the rule of law and the principles that protect us all: equal justice under the law, due process, and courts free from political interference. The rule of law requires adherence to the principle that democracy respects the balance of power among the three co-equal branches of government and is reliant on an independent judiciary to function properly. Any threat to judicial independence endangers the rule of law, undermining public confidence in our democracy and overall system of justice. A strong, impartial judiciary premised on the undisputable principle that we are a nation of laws – and not just the whims of individuals – is vital not only for the protection of individual liberties but also for the maintenance of economic confidence and the peaceful resolution of disputes.

Lora Waeckerle President

Hello! For those who may not know me, my name is Lora Waeckerle and I’m excited to serve as this year’s President of the Young Lawyers Section.

Mae Pochop, for her remarkable leadership over the past year. Mae led with positivity, professionalism, and dedication while organizing exceptional CLEs, including the Nuts and Bolts program and the Young I was born and raised in Rapid City, South Dakota. Lawyers Bootcamp, both of which enjoyed outstanding In 2015, I earned my bachelor's degree in Political attendance. She also spearheaded a comprehensive Science from the University of Wyoming followed by review of the YLS bylaws that will benefit the Section earning my JD in 2018 from the University of Nebraska for years to come. Thank you as well to our departing College of Law. After graduating, I had the privilege of Board members—Becca Ronayne, Tyler Bradley, Ryan clerking for Justice Janine M. Kern of the South Dakota Walno, Caleb Vulkovich, and Tia Vlasman—for their Supreme Court for two years. I then practiced with service and commitment to the Young Lawyers Section. Thomas Braun Bernard & Burke, LLP in Rapid City before joining my twin sister, Sara Waeckerle, at a firm I also want to congratulate Brooke Schmidt on being of her creation, Waeckerle Law, Prof. LLC. Our firm has selected as the 2026 Young Lawyer of the Year. Brooke grown tremendously since then. What began as "double exemplifies the qualities this award recognizes. In trouble" has expanded into a team of four attorneys addition to maintaining a busy practice, she serves as with the additions of Ryan Walno and Tanner Jackson co-chair of Ask-A-Lawyer, is an active member of the in 2025 and 2026 respectively. It has been exciting to State Bar's Labor and Employment Law Committee, help build a practice alongside my sister while serving volunteers with the Sioux Empire Teen Court program, clients across South Dakota. and serves on the Board of Trustees for the Bishop O'Gorman Catholic Schools Foundation. Despite In a welcomed twist, this year is especially meaningful balancing these commitments with raising four young because I have the privilege of serving as YLS President children, Brooke approaches everything she does with while my former boss and longtime mentor John Burke boundless energy, genuine kindness, and an unwavering serves as President of the State Bar. My involvement commitment to serving others. She is truly deserving of with the Young Lawyers Section has been one of the this recognition. most rewarding parts of my legal career. I began as the Seventh Circuit Representative before serving Inspired by Brooke's example and the many leaders who as Secretary/Treasurer and President-Elect. I have have served before me, my goal this year is to continue been fortunate to work alongside outstanding Board fostering civility, professionalism, and collegiality members and leaders throughout that time. within our Bar. The relationships we build with one another strengthen both our profession and the service I especially want to thank our immediate past President, we provide to our clients. I look forward to working 6

• Second Circuit Representative: Erin Ballard • Third Circuit Representative: Jacob Dawson • Fourth Circuit Representative: Garrett Keegan • Fifth Circuit Representative: Vacant • Sixth Circuit Representative: Katherine Seely • At-Large Representative: Callie Pospishil • Law School Liaison: Aftyn Heitkamp

with each of you in the coming year. Below are the members of the 2026–2027 Young Lawyers Section Board: • President: Lora Waeckerle • President-Elect: Stephen Gamar • Secretary/Treasurer: John Noyes • First Circuit Representative: Natasha Allen

JULY 21, 2026

LAW FOR LUNCH Open Meetings Laws

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JUSTICE SQUAD THANK YOU TO THE FOLLOWING ATTORNEY VOLUNTEERS THAT ACCEPTED A CASE, CLOSED A CASE, HAD AN EXISTING OPEN CASE, OR VOLUNTEERED AS A MENTOR ON AN ACCESS TO JUSTICE CASE BETWEEN APRIL 2025 AND JUNE 2026: Aaron Davis Eric Schlimgen Aaron Pilcher Gabriele Sayaloune Alex Hoﬀman Gary Blue Angela Colbath George Johnson Anonymous – Rapid City Greg Grajczyk Anonymous – Sioux Falls Greg Sperlich Austin Schaefer Jason Sutton Beth Roesler Jeﬀ Brekke Brenda Ask Jelena Djordjevic Briana Geraets Jenna Riedel Bruce Bauer Jennifer Goldammer Carla Glynn Jennifer Tomac Chad Locken Jerald McNeary Clair Gerry Jeremy Lund Cody Raterman Joel Arends Cole Romey John Hughes Craig Thompson Jordan Bordewyk Daniel Pahlke Josey Blare David R. Hansen Kaleb Paulsen Dennis Duncan Kaleb Peterson Derek Hills Karen Paige Hunt Diana Boni Katie Johnson Dylan Miller Kelly Sanderson Dylan Novak Ken Bertsch Edward Hruska Kendra Mulder Elizabeth Overmoe Kiera Leddy Emily Maurice Kyle Beauchamp

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THANK YOU TO THE FOLLOWING ATTORNEY VOLUNTEERS THAT PARTICIPATED THROUGH THE SD FREE LEGAL ANSWERS WEBSITE BETWEEN April 2025 AND June 2026: ***Denotes a top 5 attorney volunteer on SDFLA in 2025 Steve Huﬀ*** Renee Stellagher*** James Taylor*** Marwin Smith*** Dylan Miller***

Adam Altman Joseph Hogue Alison Ramsdel Denise Langley

Kyle Krause Jeﬀ Hurd Alexander Voisin

Fe�lows of the South Dakota Bar Foundation Life Patron Fe�low - $100,000 plus Al Arendt

Life Fe�low - $25,000 plus

Sustaining Life Fe�low - $50,000 plus Fred & Luella Cozad

Frank L. Farrar Gregory A. Yates

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John P. Blackburn Heather Lammers Bogard Richard D. Casey Hon. Michael Day Robert B. Frieberg Thomas H. Frieberg Thomas G. Fritz William C. Garry David A. Gerdes Hon. David R. Gienapp Patrick G. Goetzinger G. Verne Goodsell Robert E. Hayes Terry L. Hofer Carleton R. “Tex” Hoy Steven K. Huﬀ Hon. Charles B. Kornmann Lisa Hansen Marso Bob Morris Thomas J. Nicholson Gary J. Pashby Stephanie E. Pochop Reed A. Rasmussen Pamela R. Reiter Robert C. Riter, Jr. Eric C. Schulte Jeﬀrey T. Sveen Charles M. Thompson Richard L. Travis Thomas J. Welk Terry G. Westergaard

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Hon. John Bastian Hon. Judith K. Meierhenry Hon. John L. Brown Hon. Robert A. Miller Paul L. Cremer Robert C. Riter, Jr. Andrew L. Fergel Hon. Glen A Severson Michael S. Fischer Jason R.F. Sutton Tom E. Geu Rodrick L. Tobin Craig A. Kennedy Lea Wroblewski Denise Langley

Raising the Bar: Our Profession. Our Responsibility. 9

In the last year, my mind and my reading list have frequently turned to history. Not surprising given that this is the 125th Anniversary of the Law School’s founding in 1901. The cycle of human events, the inspiration of figures from the past, and the present echoes of analogous events from yesterday—these things have often and profitably occupied my mind this year.

McKusick would be agog at the prospect of more than ninety-five highly qualified students scheduled to arrive in August as members of the Class of 2029.

Exciting as that is, the lesson of history is that the tides of enrollment ebb and flow. While we continue to ride a national wave of surging law school enrollment, the demographic cliff has already forced that wave to break among undergraduate programs. Nationwide college While a milestone anniversary draws our minds back, enrollments declined this year, will continue to decline it also casts them forward to the prospect of our future for more than a decade, and those declines are imposing which will become the past for future generations. havoc on higher education. Universities are cutting and I have been drawn to think about what a vibrant and closing, programs are shrinking and dying, students are sustainable legal profession will look like for the disappearing and choosing different paths. These trends generations of lawyers that will come after us. Just as will impact the Law School in coming years. our vision of the past is blurred by the incompleteness We must learn the lesson of history that investment in of the historic record and differences in perspectives law school enrollment is a necessary investment in the and values among generations, our vision of the future future of our profession, our state, and our world. We is limited to speculation and hope at best. must invest our time to recruit our successor into the At the hinge of past and future is the present. The present where we stand and where we work together, informed by the lessons of history and hopeful about the opportunities of the future to build our profession and the next 125 years of our State’s Law School. Lessons and opportunities abound here in our present; a few merit our attention this morning.

profession through work with Destination Dakota Legal Careers. We must invest our talent by teaching and mentoring students as adjunct professors, intern hosts, and other engagements. We must invest our treasure through the 1901 Fund and other scholarship funds. Remember the history of the mid-2010’s, when the trend of declining enrollment, student credentials, and Recruiting and investing in the next generation of bar passage rates was changed only through significant lawyers remains as crucial today as it was when the first additional investment of scholarship dollars and state four students enrolled in the Law School in 1901; when funding. Arthur Sponholz became our first graduate in 1902; and Building a curriculum that prepares ethical and effective when we hit once unimaginable enrollment benchmarks lawyers for a broad variety of employment in a rapidly of ten students in 1904, twenty in 1909, forty in 1948, evolving world likewise remains as crucial as when and more than eighty in 1984. Dean Sterling and Dean our first students completed an entirely prescribed 10

curriculum in the rooms of USD’s West Hall. Curricular evolution has continued throughout the Law School’s history with the introduction of elective courses, entirely new subjects like the Uniform Commercial Code (it was once entirely new), and consistent dialogue with the profession to find ways to better prepare new lawyers with partnerships like the law practice drafting class and trial academy.

Please come visit the old and the new tomorrow morning during our champagne brunch and tours starting at 10 a.m. A final prominent element of the history of the Law School is public service for South Dakota. For generations our alumni have stepped forward into public service roles that meet South Dakota’s needs. Most recently, nine of our newest alumni participated in the inaugural cohort of the Public Service Pathway pilot program. Each of them completed a full semester of placement with a public service legal office and successful demonstration of minimum competence to the Board of Bar Examiners through their portfolio. They have all either begun their two years of obligatory public service or postponed that duty in favor of a judicial clerkship. Eight members of the Class of 2027 are following these trailblazers. We are grateful to these students, their host offices, the Board of Bar Examiners, and the South Dakota Supreme Court for pursuing an innovative means to incentivize and invest in public service lawyers while still protecting the public through a rigorous and reliable assessment of competence. In future years, we will look to expand the two-year service commitment to rural practice. This continues the long history of the Law School working with the South Dakota bench and bar to meet the legal needs of South Dakota in innovative ways.

We continue to build our curriculum with our eyes consistently trained on what makes a new lawyer “wellprepared.” We have integrated our first year “skills” courses of legal writing, legal research, and foundations of legal profession out of recognition that no lawyer can see those skills as disconnected. We introduce the research and drafting capacities of generative AI in the first year, with a recognition of its risks, rewards, and reality for the profession. For the incoming 1L class, we have adopted a required Professional Responsibility Lab that will introduce students to vital elements of practice like timekeeping, billing, client communication, drafting, and lawyer wellbeing through their connection to the Rules of Professional Conduct. In the face of the troubling decline in writing skill and experience among incoming students, we have added more courses focused on writing skills, including a class focused on strengthening foundational technical skills and a class with Professor Garry on mastering the craft of writing Looking back at 125 years of history of the Law School, and editing. I remain as struck today as I was on my first day as While perhaps nothing seems more like “inside dean by the continuity of our community of excellence, baseball” than curriculum development, it requires service, and leadership. Over the decades we have faced input from the entire profession. Feedback from the a variety of challenges and opportunities, but met them Law School Committee, all of you who employ our consistently guided by these values: acting together as a students, and national initiatives like the ongoing community, driven by a pursuit of excellence, humbly study and recommendations about legal education committed to service, and courageously accepting from Chief Justice Jensen and his colleagues across the leadership. Much changes, but these values endure; or country provide invaluable guidance on the innovations as Virginia Woolf is said to have said: we sing the old necessary to our present and the future ahead. songs, but in slightly different keys.

Colleagues, friends, we stand today in the liminal space of the present. We stand after history and before the future, possessed only of the present and our actions in this present moment. The history of the first 125 years of the Law School was authored by those with the courage and vision to embrace their present. The next 125 years will be authored by our choice or failure to do the same. I am confident in your choices. Our history is inspiring, our future is bright, because of what we do choose to do together today.

The physical history of the Law School has been dynamic since 1901. The first classes met in the YMCA Room of West Hall. Legal education migrated to the College of Law at the southeast end of campus in 1909, declared then to be the “most ornate” building on campus. That ornate structure gave way to the “new” law school building in 1981. Not so new anymore, we are wrapping up a multi-year renovation of the Law School. Classrooms have been updated and two added, the administrative suite entirely restructured, and technology integrated throughout. We are proud of our home. 11

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ANNOUNCEMENTS

Lawyers Concerned for Lawyers, Inc. Receives NonProfit Status

Lynn Jackson Attorneys is pleased to announce that

Meghann M. Joyce

has become a shareholder in the firm Effective May 1, 2026

We are pleased to announce that Lawyers Concerned for Lawyers, Inc. has officially been approved as a non-profit organization. As a result, donations to the organization are now tax deductible to the donor, to the extent allowed by law. We appreciate your continued support of this important organization and its mission to assist members of the legal community.

Lynn Jackson Attorneys 110 N Minnesota Ave Ste 400 Sioux Falls, SD 57104 Phone: (605) 332-5999 Email: mjoyce@lynnjackson.com www.lynnjackson.com

South Dakota Paralegal Association

What is a Paralegal? Paralegals are key members of the legal team, providing essential support to attorneys, agencies, and legal departments. With specialized education, training, and/or experience, they handle substantive legal tasks delegated by an attorney, who remains ultimately responsible for their work. Experienced paralegals can efficiently complete many legal tasks performed by attorneys, sharing the workload at a lower cost to the office.

The Value of Paralegal Support: Increase efficiency and productivity Manage costs more effectively Expand capacity to take on additional cases Improve case management, preparation, and follow-through Increase specialization and expertise Enhance client satisfaction Allows attorneys to devote more time to high-level legal work Generates income with a billable rate 15

Congratulations!

to the 2026 Award Recipients A Special Recognition of Generosity Al Arendt Diversity & Inclusion Award Taneeza Islam McKusick Award Edwin E. Evans State Bar President’s A2J Pro Bono/Low Bono Service Award Stan Anker

William F. Day Jr. Law Student Pro Bono Service Award Aidan Mullaney YLS Young Lawyer of the Year Brooke N. Schmidt Barbara Anderson Lewis Special Commemoration Award Kelsea Sutton U S D S c h o o l o f L a w W o m e n i n L a w A t t o r n e y o f t he Y e a r Presiding Circuit Judge Christina L. Klinger Circuit Judge Bobbi J. Rank Circuit Judge Margo D. Northrup Circuit Judge M. Bridget Mayer Magistrate Judge Tara L. Adamski S p i r i t o f E x c 16 ellence Award Tamara Nash

THE STATE BAR EXPRESSES OUR SINCERE THANKS TO ALL WHO ASSISTED WITH THE ANNUAL CONVENTION AND ANNUAL BUSINESS MEETING, INCLUDING: State Bar President John Richter State Bar Commissioners Sheraton Hotel & Premier Center Staff Old Courthouse Museum CLE Committee Members, Chairs, & Presenters Sarah Covington – State Bar Convention App SDPB Justin Smith – Business Meeting Parliamentarian Judge Jon Sogn – Awards Luncheon Master of Ceremonies Award Presenters and Business Meeting Speakers

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2026

BANKRUPTCY & DEBTOR-CREDITOR CLE

Friday, September 18, 2026 9:00 am - 5:00 pm

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2026 ANNUAL CONVENTION RECAP Stronger Together. One Profession. One Bar. One Community.

SOUTH DAKOTA BAR FOUNDATION

Minutes of June 19, 2025, Meeting, Rapid City Ramkota, and via Teams

South Dakota Bar Foundation President Steve Huff called the meeting of the Board to order at 7:30 AM MDT. Board members present were President Huff, Vice President Bill Garry, Renee Christensen (via Teams), Tom Frieberg, Pat Goetzinger, Lisa Marso, Pamela Reiter, Heather Lammers Bogard, and Anthony Sutton. Also present for all or part of the meeting were State Bar Access to Justice Coordinator Denise Langley, Director of Operations Tracie Bradford, Strategic Plan Coordinator Carrie Sanderson, State Bar President Sarah Sharp Theophilus, South Dakota Community Foundation Director for Foundation Relations Beth Massa, and Executive Director/Secretary-Treasurer Paul Cremer. Jennifer Anderson appeared via Teams to discuss Bar Foundation financial matters. Anderson and her company, Anderson Nill, provide bookkeeping services to the Bar Foundation in conjunction with services provided by Anderson Nill to the State Bar. Anderson described the bookkeeping services and applicable accounting and reporting standards. Anderson Nill’s bookkeeping services will assist the Bar Foundation and ELO (the Bar Foundation and State Bar auditor).

Cremer and Anderson provided the financial report and noted that the Bar Foundation continues to benefit from donations and IOLTA funds. Cremer discussed State Bar efforts to obtain higher rates of return by utilizing cash management services provided by Bankwest, including ICS and CDARS. Denise Langley provided information to the Bar Foundation related to her service as Coordinator of Access to Justice. Langley thanked the Bar Foundation for their continued support. A2J continues to work with East River Legal Services and Dakota Plains Legal Services on various efforts, including improvements to the joint website for all three entities. A2J hired Betty Morford to provide part-time administrative assistance to A2J, which allows Langley to engage in more case work. Langley provided statistical information, including A2J involvement in 144 cases, and 135 of those cases involve priority clients (veterans, elders, and victims of domestic violence). A2J continues to work with State Bar volunteers to assist the public through the Free Legal Answers program. Langley thanked State Bar volunteers for their assistance in various A2J efforts. President Garry made a motion to approve the minutes of the June 12, 2024, Bar Foundation meeting. Director Frieberg seconded the motion. Motion carried. Cremer memorialized two votes that were conducted via email:

President Huff made a motion via email on February 21, 2025, to permit South Dakota rural practice program representatives to apply for the 2025 Access to Justice grant using the South Dakota Bar Foundation as the sponsoring 501(c)(3). Director Mortenson seconded the motion. Email voting ended later that day, and the motion carried (11-0). 20

President Huff made a motion via email on February 26, 2025, to approve IRS Form 990 for the year ended July 31, 2024, and the audit report from ELO. Director Lammers Bogard seconded the motion. Email voting ended on February 27, and the motion carried (11-0).

The Directors discussed Bar Foundation funds, including funds held at the South Dakota Community Foundation.

Director Goetzinger provided information regarding funds provided by Fred and Luella Cozad, which are intended to assist rural practice efforts. The State Bar and the citizens of South Dakota have benefited greatly from the generosity of the Cozad family.

Beth Massa of the Community Foundation provided information about Director Goetzinger's role in assisting the Cozad family. Massa announced that the South Dakota Community Foundation is inducting Goetzinger into the Christen-Larson Heritage Circle for his efforts to assist the Cozads' charitable work. The Directors thanked the Community Foundation and the Cozad family, and congratulated Goetzinger. The South Dakota Bar Foundation has a contract with the State Bar under which the State Bar provides administrative services to the Bar Foundation for one dollar. Director Frieberg made a motion to approve the contract. Vice President Garry seconded the motion. Motion carried.

Carrie Sanderson provided information about efforts by Destination Dakota Legal Careers (DDLC) involving outreach to recruit students to careers involving the justice system.

The Directors discussed grant requests. Director Reiter noted her involvement with DDLC and recused herself from voting on the DDLC grant request. Director Reiter made a motion to approve the grant requests as listed below with the exception of the DDLC grant request. Director Lammers Bogard seconded the motion. Motion carried. Director Lammers Bogard made a motion to approve the DDLC grant request. President Huff seconded the motion. Motion carried. The Bar Foundation approved the following grant requests: 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. 8. 9.

Access to Justice - $85,000 Ask-A-Lawyer - $23,000 Destination Dakota Legal Careers - $60,000 Ombuds Contract - $20,000 Rural Practice Internships - $18,000 SD Public Broadcasting (Statehouse Coverage) - $20,000 South Dakota News Watch Lost in Court Training - $4000 SD Teen Court - $5000 WORKS Clinic - $7500

Total: $242,500

Cremer discussed efforts by State Bar staff to obtain legal research resources that could be provided as a free member benefit to State Bar members. The State Bar may request grant funding from the South Dakota Bar Foundation to assist these efforts. Work will continue. The Directors discussed the departure of Director Renee Christensen and Director Kim Mortenson because their terms on the Bar Foundation Board of Directors are ending. The Directors thanked Christensen and Mortenson for their Bar Foundation service. Director Reiter made a motion to appoint Lisa Prostrollo to the Bar Foundation Board of Directors to fill one of the open positions. Director Marso seconded the motion. Motion carried. Work will continue to fill the other open position.

Director Marso discussed efforts in other states to promote education regarding the rule of law. Discussion of efforts in South Dakota will continue. Director Reiter made a motion to nominate Director Marso to serve as Vice President. President Huff seconded the motion. Motion carried.

Director Frieberg nominated Vice President Garry to serve as President and to succeed outgoing President Huff. Director Reiter seconded the motion. Motion carried. The board thanked President Huff for his service. Current State Bar President Sarah Sharp Theophilus will become a member of the Board of Directors as a Past President, as per the Bar Foundation Bylaws. President Garry adjourned the meeting at 8:50 AM MDT. Respectfully submitted, Paul Cremer Executive Director/Secretary-Treasurer

SOUTH DAKOTA BAR FOUNDATION Special Meeting Minutes June 2, 2026 A special meeting was properly noticed for 6/2/2026. The following Directors attended via Zoom: Heather Bogard, Siri Buller, Bill Garry, Thomas Frieberg, Lisa Marso, Lisa Prostrollo, Pamela Reiter, Anthony Sutton, Sarah Theophilus. Absent were Patrick G. Goetzinger; Stephanie Judson. A motion was made by Pamela Reiter to amend Section of 7 of the bylaws to read: A. The powers of the corporation shall be exercised, its properties controlled, and its affairs conducted by the Board of Directors in a manner consistent with the purposes of the corporation as set forth in the articles of incorporation. The Board of Directors shall consist of not less than five members. At its annual meeting, the Board of Directors shall elect a member of the State Bar to replace any Director whose term has expired, with consideration being given to electing the immediate past State Bar President. In addition, the foregoing Board of Directors may elect additional directors, not to exceed five, by majority vote, one of whom may be a nonlawyer, for a term of three years. Further, by majority vote, the Board of Directors may elect a member of the Young Lawyers Section for a term of one year. If the State Bar is abolished by the Legislature or by the Supreme Court of South Dakota, then the Directors in office at that time shall adopt a new procedure for choosing their successors and filling vacancies on the board. A Director may be removed by the Board whenever in its judgment the best interests of the corporation would be served thereby, but such removal shall be without prejudice to the contract rights, if any, of the officer, agent, or employee so removed. Heather Bogard seconded the motion. Discussion included that while not discussed by the Board at the time, this change was recommended a few years ago so that the Board may be comprised of Bar members who may have fresh ideas and fundraising skills, and to not have the past Bar President automatically becoming a Director. 9 ayes; 0 nays. Motion carried. The next meeting will be held on June 24, 2026, at 8:00 a.m. at a location to be later disclosed.

Law Day The Indian Law Committee sponsored a Law Day event by going to Rosebud Elementary School and Todd County Elementary School. The committee presented the Mock Trial of Goldilocks and the Three Bears to 4th and 5th-grade students.

Amanda Work, Kate Katterhagen, Matt Rappold, Hon. Eric Schulte, George Johnson, Kirk Albertson, Troy Morley, Amy BartlingJacobsen, Rachel Schoon, and **Not pictured: Bo Bearshield (Rosebud Sioux Tribe)

Ed Evans’s McKusick Award Acceptance Speech

Aftyn, thank you very much for your kind and much too generous introduction. Members of the State Bar Association and guests, I am truly honored and humbled to receive the prestigious Marshall McKusick Award from the Student Bar Association of the USD Knudson School of Law. In addition to the Student Bar Association, I also want to thank those who nominated me and wrote letters of support. This achievement certainly does not belong to me alone. It is a reflection of the collective strength and hard work of a lot of people who I have practiced with over the years. A lot of hard work along the way by some great lawyers who I have been fortunate enough to have practiced with over the years – some as mentors, some as younger lawyers who assisted me with their new, bright ideas, and of course, some devoted legal assistants. They are the primary reason I stand before you. I want to extend my sincere appreciation to my former colleagues at Davenport, Evans, Hurwitz & Smith, especially my mentors Tex Hoy and Judge Piersol, and all the great help I had from other lawyers at the firm along the way. I will never forget how Davenport Evans fostered a very supportive environment for young lawyers to excel. I left Davenport Evans after 35 years to start a new adventure. I left for no other reason other than a change of scenery and to join Mark Haigh and Melissa 1 34

Hinton in a practice devoted to litigation. I have been most fortunate to have practiced with them and the other current members of the firm for the last 10 years. Thank you all for your kind help and assistance along my journey. Also, I would be remiss if I did not recognize my daughter, Kelsey Bunkers, a lawyer who practices in Bozeman, Montana, and grew up with a father that was more often than not out of town or in trial, and Stephanie Perry, for her support. Receiving this award is even more meaningful to me since my father received it in 1972, the same year I started law school. I am not going to waste much more of your time here tonight. You did not come here to hear a speech from me. Let me just say, this award reflects the passion and dedication that Marshall McKusick devoted to the law school and the legal profession and that we all share in our devotion to the practice of law. I did not know Marshall McKusick personally, but only by reputation. I wonder what he would think about the attacks on the rule of law today. Our profession underscores that, above all, the Constitution is grounded in the importance of the rule of law and the principles that protect us all: equal justice under the law, due process, and courts free from political interference. The rule of law requires adherence to the principle that democracy respects the balance of power among the three co-equal branches of government and is reliant on an independent judiciary to function properly. Any threat to judicial independence 2 35

endangers the rule of law, undermining public confidence in our democracy and overall system of justice. A strong, impartial judiciary premised on the undisputable principle that we are a nation of laws – and not just the whims of individuals – is vital not only for the protection of individual liberties but also for the maintenance of economic confidence and the peaceful resolution of disputes. In recent years, judges have faced escalating personal and political attacks, including threats to their safety, aimed at intimidating the judiciary and influencing court decisions. These attacks jeopardize not only individual judges, but also the integrity of the American legal system. Attacking judges through unfair rhetoric or harassment creates a chilling effect that deters independent decision-making and weakens public trust in the courts’ ability to act without fear or favor. Judicial rulings are based on a judge’s application of the law and the Constitution. Disagreements may arise, but our legal system has the capacity to resolve them. The proper way to challenge a ruling is to appeal it. Defiance of a court order – whether by individuals, institutions, or elected officials – erodes the rule of law and signals that compliance with judicial decisions is optional and not obligatory. This undermines the courts’ authority and the principle of equal justice under the law.

3 36

As this country approaches its 250th birthday, I encourage each of us to support the independence of the judiciary, trial by jury, respect for the rule of law, access to justice, in fair representation for all parties to legal proceedings. In conclusion, I am humbled and appreciative of the award. It is indeed a profound honor and privilege to be recognized for doing the work that has been so important to me for over 50 years. Thank you and enjoy your evening.

4 37

April 23, 2026 BROOKE N. SCHMIDT Telephone No. 605-357-1214 E-mail: bschmidt@dehs.com

AIDAN F. GOETZINGER Telephone No. 605-342-1078 E-Mail:agoetzinger@gpna.com

Via Email Only (paul.cremer@sdbar.net; Carrie.Sanderson@sdbar.net; tracie.bradford@sdbar.net)

Paul L. Cremer Secretary-Treasurer The State Bar of South Dakota 111 West Capitol Avenue #1 Pierre, SD 57501 RE:

2026 Ask-A-Lawyer Committee Report

Dear Mr. Cremer: The following is a summary of the 2026 Ask-A-Lawyer program held on April 15 and 16, 2026. REPORT ON 2026 ASK-A-LAWYER PROGRAM The primary activity of the Ask-A-Lawyer Committee is to ensure the Ask-A-Lawyer program is implemented in Sioux Falls and Rapid City each spring. This public service function began in 1986. Approximately 170 callers received free legal advice from lawyers volunteering their time and expertise during the 2026 State Bar of South Dakota’s Ask-A-Lawyer program held April 15 and 16, 2026. The program ran on the two evenings simultaneously from 7:00 to 10:00 p.m. East River and 6:00 to 9:00 p.m. West River. Twenty telephone lines were answered by the volunteers, with ten lines at the calling center at the Minnehaha County Courthouse in Sioux Falls and ten lines at 529 Main Street in Rapid City. During the two nights 33 volunteers in Sioux Falls answered 97 calls and 30 volunteers in Rapid City answered 73 calls. Most of the volunteers worked 1½ hour shifts; however, some attorneys worked multiple shifts. Many of the volunteers look forward to this program each year and make this event a part of their commitment to public service. Please see Exhibit A for the list of volunteers. We are grateful for their time and expertise! The 2026 event Co-Chairs were Brooke Schmidt and Aidan Goetzinger.

April 23, 2026 Page 2 The topics covered during the program and the number of calls answered on each topic include: Adoption Bankruptcy Civil Rights Collection Contracts Corporate and Business Law Criminal Domestic / Family Employment / Discrimination Estates, Trust and Wills Immigration / Naturalization Labor Relations

1 0 3 6 5 9 14 24 10 42 2 1

Landlord / Tenant Legal Malpractice Medical Malpractice Municipal Law Real Estate Social Security Taxation Tort Traffic Workers’ Compensation Zoning Other

6 3 8 1 30 0 5 5 2 1 3 24

Advertising spots were again purchased on several television and radio stations, with new avenues of advertisement added this year in an effort to generate additional calls. Press releases were also sent to media outlets. We are starting to get more callers indicating they heard about the program through social media. Also, each year a surprising number of callers learn about the program by word of mouth. While the call volume was not as high as we would like to see, the duration of each call was longer than previous years, and the callers seemed genuinely grateful for the free legal advice. We will be brainstorming on how we can continue to reach more people across different generations. We suspect the general population’s use of artificial intelligence and this new age of “information” is likely a reason for the lower call volume. If you would like to participate in the Ask-A-Lawyer program in the future, please contact the State Bar Ask-A-Lawyer Committee. *** If you have any questions regarding the Annual Report, please contact either of us. A list of the volunteers who participated at each location is attached for your information. Best regards. Sincerely,

BROOKE N. SCHMIDT Co-Chair

AIDAN F. GOETZINGER Co-Chair 39

EXHIBIT A: 2026 ASK-A-LAWYER VOLUNTEERS Rapid City

Sioux Falls

1. Leah Ceranski 2. Mali Oyen 3. Ty Daly 4. Terry Pechota 5. Ashley McDonald 6. Katelyn Cook 7. Matthew McIntosh 8. Frank Driscoll 9. Talbot Wieczorek 10. Ken Barker 11. John Burke 12. Ellery Grey 13. Robert Rohl 14. Jeff Collins 15. Sarah Weyrich 16. Hollie Smith 17. Michael Loos 18. Mark Stilwell 19. Arman Zeljkovic 20. Matthew Naasz 21. Patrick Goetzinger 22. Colton Williams 23. Reid Brost 24. Olivia Edoff 25. Matthew Lucklum 26. Owen Wiese 27. Cale Fierro 28. Kyle Beauchamp 29. Chris Christianson 30. Aidan Goetzinger

31. Taylor Anderson 32. Jean Bender 33. Jami Bishop 34. Sydney Boots 35. Ashley Brost 36. Kristin Derenge 37. Henry Evans 38. Keith Gauer 39. Lane Haskell 40. David Hieb 41. Joe Hogue 42. Anthony Hohn 43. Alayna Holmstrom 44. Dick Johnson 45. Mark Krogstad 46. Sarah Larson 47. Aaron Lougheed 48. Sara Mangan 49. Anthony Metzgar 50. Carey Miller 51. Erin Oster 52. Beth Overmoe 53. Kalen Peterson 54. Elise Rasmussen 55. Susan Rasmussen 56. Joel Rische 57. Brooke Schmidt 58. Mollie Schommer 59. Connor Shaull 60. Tom Simmons 61. Anthony Sutton 62. Jill Swanson 63. Lea Wroblewski

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call. text. chat. Counselors at the Helpline Center answer the 988 Lifeline for South Dakota. 988 provides support, connections and hope during a mental health or substance use crisis. People can call, text or chat 988 for themselves or if they are worried about a loved one who may need support. Available 24/7.

…about depression or anxiety …if you’re concerned about a loved one …if you need resources for substance use or mental health …if you’re having thoughts of suicide

helplinecenter.org/9-8-8 43

Never Assume “It’s All Good” When Purchasing a Law Practice Mark Bassingthwaighte, Risk Manager

Assumptions make daily life possible. We assume the power will stay on, our tech will behave, and the people we rely on will be available when we need them. Most of the time, these assumptions are harmless, until they’re not. When they fail, the consequences can be significant.

work done by Smith may not be immediate, but it will come. Clients expect their new lawyer to identify and disclose problems, even if those problems predate the purchase. That expectation is baked into the successor lawyer relationship.

Now, let’s narrow that lens to the purchase of a law What Should Have Happened practice. Few events create more opportunities for dangerous assumptions than stepping into someone In an ideal transition: else’s client relationships, work product, and professional • Smith would have provided a list of all active matters, obligations. Especially with situations like this, assuming • High priority deadlines would have been flagged, “It’s all good” is never going to be an acceptable due and diligence strategy. • Every active file would have been updated with clear, current status notes. The Competency Trap – An Example of the Problem Since none of this occurred, Wilson should have Attorney Smith was retiring. Attorney Wilson agreed to conducted a thorough review of every incoming file, purchase the practice. Once the deal was consummated, including recently closed matters. Instead, she assumed Wilson inherited a significant number of active matters, everything was fine when, unfortunately, it wasn’t. literally overnight. Pressed for time, she made two critical assumptions: Competency Cuts Both Ways 1. Smith’s prior work was accurate and complete, and 2. She would only be liable for what she did going forward - not for Smith’s past work.

Wilson also failed to assess her own readiness. Before purchasing a practice, every lawyer should ask: • Do I have the skill set to competently handle these matters? • Do I have the time, staff, and systems to absorb this workload? • Do I understand the complexity and risk profile of the incoming files?

Both assumptions proved to be incorrect, and both contributed to an eventual malpractice claim. What Wilson Missed

Wilson never asked why Smith was retiring. Was If the honest answer is “no” or “I’m not sure,” a plan is he burned out? Struggling with declining cognitive required. capacity? Behind on deadlines? Had he stopped documenting his files? She didn’t know because she What That Plan Might Include didn’t ask and she didn’t look. • Bringing on a mentor or senior consultant • Hiring staff or contract lawyers When she accepted responsibility for Smith’s files, she • Purchasing only part of the practice (where ethically also accepted accountability for the condition of those permissible) • Merging practices for a period of time files. From a liability perspective, accountability for past 44

• Having the seller stay on as of counsel • Staggering the transition of files

• You cannot finance the sale by increasing fees on purchased matters. • You must honor the existing fee agreements and scope. • Clients must receive written notice of the sale, including the identity of the purchaser and their right to choose another lawyer. • Clients retain the right to discharge the lawyer at any time.

The specifics will vary, but the goal is the same: ensure competent, diligent representation from day one. Modern Risks: The 2026 Reality Check Today’s practice transitions also involve risks that didn’t exist a decade or so ago:

Model Rule 1.17 effectively requires you to perform your due diligence before committing to the purchase.

• Digital file chaos (mixed cloud storage, inconsistent naming, missing metadata) • Cybersecurity vulnerabilities inherited from the seller • Unmigrated practice management systems tied to the seller’s credentials • AI generated work product that may not have been reviewed • Subscription services (research tools, e-signature platforms, calendaring systems) that may lapse or be non-transferable • Remote practice compliance issues across jurisdictions (Buyer needs to be properly licensed in all jurisdictions the seller was practicing in.)

An Insurance Reality Buyers Sometimes Miss Finally, never assume the seller has responsibly handled their malpractice insurance obligations. Always confirm that the seller has purchased tail coverage because its absence can affect both your insurability and premiums if you become the target of a malpractice claim because the seller failed to put a tail in place and is thus bare. Overlooking this can be an expensive mistake. The Bottom Line Buying a law practice can be a smart, strategic move; but only if you resist the urge to assume everything is fine. Wilson’s mistake wasn’t bad luck. It was a predictable outcome of skipping the hard work of due diligence.

If you don’t evaluate these areas, you’re not doing due diligence, you’re gambling. The Profitability Assumption

Assumptions feel efficient. They feel optimistic. They It’s also tempting to assume the purchase will be feel harmless. But in a law practice purchase setting, profitable and that clients will happily stay. But if the assumptions are where trouble can begin to take root. financials don’t pan out, know that you cannot “fix” the deal by raising fees on inherited matters. Model Rule 1.17 is clear on this.

Authored by: Mark Bassingthwaighte, ALPS Risk Manager Since 1998, Mark Bassingthwaighte, Esq. has been a Risk Manager with ALPS, an attorney’s professional liability insurance carrier. In his tenure with the company, Mr. Bassingthwaighte has conducted over 1200 law firm risk management assessment visits, presented over 400 continuing legal education seminars throughout the United States, and written extensively on risk management, ethics, and technology. Mr. Bassingthwaighte is a member of the State Bar of Montana as well as the American Bar Association where he currently sits on the ABA Center for Professional Responsibility’s Conference Planning Committee. He received his J.D. from Drake University Law School. 45

CREED OF PROFESSIONALISM AND CIVILITY Preamble A lawyer should demonstrate civility, personal courtesy, dignity, respect and professional integrity when interacting with the public and participating in the legal system. As we vigorously represent our clients, we must honor our obligations to the administration of justice, resolving disputes in a rational, diplomatic, and efficient manner. We must remain committed to the rule of law as the foundation for a fair and peaceful society. While our State’s Rules of Professional Conduct are instructive, they cannot address all of the various circumstances and conflicts that arise. The following standards are designed as a guide for lawyers and judges when interacting with each other, with litigants and with the public. Lawyers are expected to adhere to these standards as a commitment to justice and the rule of law. Creed As lawyers licensed to practice in South Dakota, admitted to the State Bar of South Dakota and/or admitted pro hac vice to appear in a matter before any Court in South Dakota, we will at all times adhere to the following: 1. We will treat participants of the legal system with civility, dignity and courtesy in court, as well as in all communication. 2. We will refrain from using hostile, demeaning or humiliating words in written and oral communications with adversaries. 3. We will continue to prioritize the inclusion and active participation of lawyers (and law students) from all backgrounds, identities and circumstances. 4. We will avoid impermissible ex parte communications with the court. 5. We will not intentionally mislead the court in oral or written communications. 6. In court, we will be punctual and prepared. We will not engage in conduct that is disorderly or disruptive and will instruct our clients and witnesses to act accordingly. 7. We will consult with other counsel concerning scheduling and deadlines prior to bringing such issues to the court. We will not unilaterally schedule hearings, depositions or similar matters. 8. We will not assert improper conduct on the part of other counsel without good cause and an adequate factual basis. 9. When agreements are reached, we will adhere to the agreement and accurately and in good faith memorialize the agreement in writing. 10. We will draft orders that accurately and completely reflect the court’s ruling. 11. We will not time the filing or service of motions or pleadings with an attempt to unfairly limit another party’s ability to respond. 12. We will explain to our clients that cooperation, civility and fair dealing are expected in the legal system. 13. We will advise our clients that we reserve the right to grant accommodations to other counsel in matters not directly affecting the merits of the case or prejudicing their rights. 14. Discovery requests will be drafted without harassment or placing undue burden on the other party. Further, we will instruct our clients that they must fully and honestly respond to discovery requests. 15. When there is a potential for settlement, we will timely confer with our client and other counsel and not purposefully delay negotiations. 16. We will in good faith stipulate to undisputed matters. 17. We will strive to abide by previously scheduled dates for trials, hearings, depositions, meetings and conferences. 46

OATH OF ATTORNEY I DO SOLEMNLY SWEAR, OR AFFIRM, THAT: I WILL SUPPORT THE CONSTITUTION OF THE UNITED STATES AND THE CONSTITUTION OF THE STATE OF SOUTH DAKOTA; I WILL MAINTAIN THE RESPECT DUE TO COURTS OF JUSTICE AND JUDICIAL OFFICERS; I WILL NOT COUNSEL OR MAINTAIN ANY SUIT OR PROCEEDING WHICH SHALL APPEAR TO ME TO BE UNJUST, NOR ANY DEFENSE EXCEPT SUCH AS I BELIEVE TO BE HONESTLY DEBATABLE UNDER THE LAW OF THE LAND; I WILL EMPLOY FOR THE PURPOSE OF MAINTAINING THE CAUSES CONFIDED TO ME SUCH MEANS ONLY AS ARE CONSISTENT WITH TRUTH AND HONOR, AND WILL NEVER SEEK TO MISLEAD THE JUDGE OR JURY BY ANY ARTIFICE OR FALSE STATEMENT OF FACT OR LAW; I WILL MAINTAIN THE CONFIDENCE AND PRESERVE INVIOLATE THE SECRETS OF MY CLIENT, AND WILL ACCEPT NO COMPENSATION IN CONNECTION WITH A CLIENT'S BUSINESS EXCEPT FROM THAT CLIENT OR WITH THE CLIENT'S KNOWLEDGE OR APPROVAL; I WILL ABSTAIN FROM ALL OFFENSIVE PERSONALITY, AND ADVANCE NO FACT PREJUDICIAL TO THE HONOR OR REPUTATION OF A PARTY OR WITNESS, UNLESS REQUIRED BY THE JUSTICE OF THE CAUSE WITH WHICH I AM CHARGED; I WILL NEVER REJECT, FROM ANY CONSIDERATION PERSONAL TO MYSELF, THE CAUSE OF THE DEFENSELESS OR OPPRESSED, OR DELAY ANY PERSON'S CAUSE FOR LUCRE OR MALICE.

THE HAGEMANN-MORRIS YOUNG LAWYER MENTORSHIP COIN PROGRAM THE STATE BAR OF SOUTH DAKOTA YOUNG LAWYERS SECTION

PROGRAM OBJECTIVE

The Hagemann-Morris Young Lawyer Mentorship Coin Program strives to foster mentorship within the State Bar by pairing members of the Young Lawyers Section with Mentors who can provide candid and insightful guidance to Young Lawyers as they navigate the beginning stages of their legal career. The Program hopes to: • • • • •

Foster the development of the Young Lawyers practical skills and their knowledge of legal customs; Create a sense of pride and integrity in the legal profession; Promote collegial relationships among legal professionals; Improve legal ability and professional judgment; and Encourage the use of best practices and highest ideals in the practice of law.

State Bar members are members of the Young Lawyers Section until they reach age 40 or have practiced law for ten years, whichever occurs later.

II.

HOW IT WORKS 1. Young Lawyers and Mentors sign up with the State Bar by completing the online forms linked below. 2. The YLS Board establishes a compatible mentorship pair. -

The YLS Board creates mentorship pairs using the information provided in the applications and reaching out to attorneys believed to be a good fit for the Young Lawyer. Young Lawyers may also request specific mentors or request Mentor Coins for an alreadyestablished mentorship.

3. The YLS Board will send the Young Lawyer and Mentor an informational packet with suggested conversations and activities. The Young Lawyer will also receive Mentor Coins. 4. The Young Lawyer may present a Mentor Coin to their Mentor as an invitation for mentorship and acknowledge their trust in such Mentor.

JOIN THE PROGRAM

https://statebar.typeform.com/mentorship

STATE BAR OF SOUTH DAKOTA ● HAGEMANN-MORRIS YOUNG LAWYER MENTORSHIP COIN PROGRAM 111 WEST CAPITOL AVENUE, #1, PIERRE, SD 57501 ● TELEPHONE: (605) 224-7554 ● www.statebarofsouthdakota.com

State Bar of South Dakota: Association Group Health Plan The South Dakota Bar Association offers a special group insurance plan for bar members and their employees through Avera Health Plans.

Who Qualifies?

Additional Details

Organizations with employees who are active members of the South Dakota Bar Association qualify.

• The SD Bar Association plan does not include pediatric dental and vision. If you have questions about how to get these benefits, an Avera Health Plans representative can explain your options.

Available Network Options The following networks are available:

• The Bar Association health plan renews annually on Sept. 1, but benefits follow a calendar year (January–December). If you enroll on April 1, your plan will follow 2024-2025 pricing until the next renewal on Sept. 1. If a member signs up for the plan mid-year, they will receive a credit for deductible and out-of-pocket expenses to cover them until the renewal date (Sept. 1).

• Standard Network – Avera and other independent providers across South Dakota and northwest Iowa • Direct Network – Avera-owned, -managed and -leased providers. Available to employers headquartered in Brown, Lincoln and Minnehaha counties. • Extended Network – Along with our Standard network, members can take advantage of a Nationwide PPO network that offers access to a range of health care providers and facilities like Mayo Clinic.

• Prices and benefits are subject to change.

Why Enroll?

Learn More by Reaching Out

The plan offers the following benefits:

Josh Gilkerson 605-224-9223 JGilkerson@Acrisure.com

• Lower premiums • Options not available on small group plans, such as the more comprehensive “Ultra” plans

Or inquire with Avera Health Plans at sales@averahealthplans.org

• The Nationwide PPO network provides access to a broad range of services at lower costs than out-of-network options.

AVHP-1228101

State Bar of South Dakota Association Avera Healthcare Plans The following agents or agencies that are authorized to sell the State Bar Association Health Plan.

EASTERN SOUTH DAKOTA

Office Location

Agency

Contact

Mitchell & Yankton Area Aberdeen Area Sioux Falls Area Sioux Falls & Brookings Area Pierre, Mitchell & Sioux Falls Area Watertown Area

Dice Financial Mark Mehlhoff Midwest Employee Benefits McGreevy & Associates Fisher Rounds & Associates Freimark & Associates

Jacquelyn Johnson Mark Mehlhoff Dawn Knutson John Lawler Josh Gilkerson Todd Freimark

Office Location

Agency

Contact

West River

Black Hills Insurance Agency Black Hills Insurance Agency Carver Insurance

Dan Maguire Everett Strong Lisa Knutson

WESTERN SOUTH DAKOTA

Questions on Eligibility, Rates, and Services? Please contact the agency listed above based on your office location within the state for questions related to50the Association Healthcare Plan.

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In Memoriam

treatment facility for people dealing with drug and alcohol addiction, where he generously shared his time, guidance, and encouragement with countless individuals on their recovery journeys.

Robert Gregory “Greg” Bartron August 15, 1950 – June 15, 2026

Through his service, mentorship, and compassion, Greg positively affected many lives and earned the respect and gratitude of those who knew him. Greg found great joy in the outdoors, especially goose, pheasant & duck Robert Gregory “Greg” hunting. Greg loved the quiet before dawn, the company Bartron, or known to his close friends as Black of good friends, and the excitement that comes with a flock appearing on the horizon. He enjoyed fishing Bart, 75, passed away at on the Missouri River, watching the sunset over the his home in Rapid City on Thursday, June 18. beautiful Black Hills from his back deck, reminiscing Greg was born on August 15, 1950, to Dr. Bob & Jean about his childhood on Lake Kampeska, spending time with family and a good carrot cake. Bartron in Watertown, SD. Greg is survived by his children Ashley Romme (Scott) of Windsor CO and Grayson of Rapid City; sisters Lynn Schaefer (Larry) of Watertown and Stephanie Miscione of Carbondale CO; his grandchildren Sara, Sydney, Alex, Madi, Brekken & Addisyn; and many nieces & nephews. He was preceded in death by his wife of 56 years, Mary; parents Dr. Bob & Jean Bartron; and his beloved grandson Jack.

Greg lived a life marked by intelligence, service, humor, and a healthy appreciation for the outdoors. The youngest of three children, he graduated from Watertown Senior High School & went on to receive an undergraduate degree from the University of Colorado Boulder where he met and would later marry the love of his life, Mary Ellen Harman. Greg continued his education at the University of South Dakota Law School, which led him to settle down in Watertown, raise a family and practice law for the next 20 years. During his time as an attorney, he had the opportunity to work as an assistant attorney general under Governor Bill Janklow, and was also appointed the states attorney for Codington County. He was passionate about helping others navigate difficult situations and believed that everyone deserved to be heard. Greg was intelligent, stubborn when he thought he was right, quick with an opinion, and never afraid of a spirited discussion. He had a sense of humor that could catch you off guard and a presence that filled a room.

Though we mourn his passing, we celebrate a life well lived. Greg leaves behind a legacy of service, dedication, laughter, and love that will continue through those who knew him best. A visitation will be held in Rapid City in honor of Greg at Kirk Funeral Home (1501 E Minnesota Street) on Thursday July 2, from 11-1pm. Greg will be laid to rest in Watertown at a later date.

Greg and Mary had always loved the Black Hills and decided to relocate to the Rapid City area in 1997 where Greg became deeply involved in the Rapid City community. Through his leadership with the West River foundation, he worked to support charitable initiatives and strengthen opportunities for people across western South Dakota. He was a dedicated member of many Alcoholics Anonymous groups in the Rapid City area, as well as being heavily involved with the Pennington County Sherrif ’s Office Friendship House, a residential 52

Burleigh “Lee” Ernest Boldt January 24, 1932 – May 14, 2026

Burleigh practiced law in South Dakota primarily in Mitchell where he was active in civic and church activities. One of which was chairman of the Corn Palance committee for 10 years. Burleigh and Betty enjoyed traveling. First by car through the U.S and Canada and later by tour bus and Burleigh Ernest “Lee” cruises in Europe. For twenty years they wintered at Boldt was born at home in their home in Surprise, Arizona, where he volunteered Calumet, Iowa on January at the Texas Rangers and Kansas City Royals Spring 24, 1932. To Arnold and Training facility. Noreen (Mugge) Boldt. He passed away as a resident of Good Samaritan Village in Sioux Falls, South Dakota Burleigh is survived by his wife of 67 years, Betty, on May 14, 2026. brother Wesley (Joann) Boldt, nephew, Todd (Tanny) Boldt, nieces: Michelle (Scott) Hampton and Kristen Burleigh attended public school K-12, was baptized Boldt, six grand nieces, nephew-in-law Gregg Fossum, and confirmed at Zion United Church of Christ all in niece-in-law Gail Fossum – Shea Calumet, Iowa. His first job was a paper boy for the Sioux City Journal. He grew up working in his family’s He is preceded by his parents Arnold and Nora Boldt, black smith and implement shop. Hobbies included parents-in-law Elmer and Opal Tuntland, sister and basketball, constructing model airplanes and playing brother-in-law Arlene and Dick Fossum, sister-in-law catchers in baseball. As an adult he became a private Sherry Boldt. pilot, enjoyed gardening, reading, oil painting, wood carving and traveling.

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Email your employment announcement to tracie.bradford@sdbar.net by 26th of each month to have it included in the next newsletter. Please be sure to include a closing date. To see more jobs listings, visit www.statebarofsouthdakota.com

Assistant City Attorney I or II, City Attorney’s Office, Rapid City SD

property maintenance codes, state and federal laws, City ordinances, and specialized documents. • Performs various transactional legal services including, but not limited to, drafting, reviewing, and/or approving easements, deeds, contracts, agreements, ordinances and resolutions, policies and procedures, or amendments thereto. Acts as legal advisor to departments negotiating various contracts, except labor contracts, on behalf of the City. • Confers directly with the public, press, City staff, and department directors explaining City ordinances, City and state licenses and permits, rights of parties, trial results, various rights of trial and appeal, and responses to complaints. • Litigates claims by or against the City arising from actions of City Council, other boards or commissions, or City staff; defends complaints against City personnel which arise out of their employment with the City; prepares cases for trial, examining law and evidence, and represents the City at trial. • Attends meetings with and advises various City boards, committees, and commissions on questions of law and legal issues. • Develops and conducts training presentations for City officials and employees communicating legal guidance and/or statutory or ordinance requirements on a variety of topics. • Performs other such duties and functions as are necessary or incidental to the proper performance of this position.

The City of Rapid City is accepting applications for the position of Assistant City Attorney I or II. The City Attorney’s Office consists of a team of five attorneys in a fast-paced environment. The office provides legal support and services to all City departments and elected officials. Salary and Benefits: The City of Rapid City offers a competitive benefits package, including employer paid health insurance, paid holidays, generous leave accruals, and participation in the South Dakota Retirement System. Assistant City Attorney I range: $87,396 to $117,453 Assistant City Attorney II range: $112,374 to $150,708 Pay rate and classification dependent on qualifications and experience. Essential Duties and Responsibilities – Assistant City Attorney I: • Investigates and prepares cases and acts as prosecutor against individuals and businesses that violate municipal ordinances; represents the City in City ordinance violation cases in Magistrate Court, in appeals from the Magistrate Division to Circuit Court, and in civil cases in Circuit Court representing the City or its administrative boards. • Provides legal assistance and guidance to City staff, the City Council, and other City officials. • Prepares, reviews, and interprets ordinances, resolutions, contracts, policies, state laws, and other legal documents for the City, its decision-makers, City staff, and the public. • Advises City officials and staff by interpreting and providing legal opinions on code enforcement, including building, electrical, mechanical, fire, zoning, and

Essential Duties and Responsibilities – Assistant City Attorney II: • Performs all Assistant City Attorney I duties. • Assists in negotiations of union contracts and subsequent administration of these contracts. • Supervises the City Attorney’s Office in absence of City Attorney and Deputy City Attorney. • Provides legal advice and assistance to City officials and 54

staff on sophisticated and complex legal matters. • Assists outside counsel in representation of the City.

a healthy work/life balance by monitoring caseloads and using technology to help streamline case management. Our goal is for you to be at your best while feeling confident in handling your own cases with minimal micro-managing, as we support you each step of the way! The Public Defender’s Office also values your opinion, and we encourage you to provide alternative solutions to current practices which help keep us on the path of continued improvement.

Qualifications – Assistant City Attorney I: • Juris Doctor degree required. • Active membership in good standing with a state bar required, or ability to obtain admission within 90 days from date of hire. Qualifications – Assistant City Attorney II: • Juris Doctor degree required. • Active membership in good standing with a state bar required, or ability to obtain admission within 90 days from date of hire. • Four years of experience in the practice of law required, preferably in public sector law or regulatory compliance. Visit careers.rcgov.org to submit an application/resume and for more information. Questions may be directed to carla. cushman@rcgov.org. Position closes July 6, 2026.

We offer competitive starting salaries based on experience and qualifications, ranging from $80,800 to 101,000 per year for 2026, and negotiable, depending on experience. We provide employer paid premiums on employee health, dental, and life insurance, while offering cost options for employee dependent plans and supplemental insurance. We are part of the South Dakota State Retirement system which offers a 6% employee match for eligible employees. In addition, we provide a generous paid time off and extended sick leave package, while observing 13 paid holidays throughout the year.

Brown County Deputy Public Defender

Excited by what you’ve read? Don’t wait- apply now and join our team! JOB SUMMARY This position is responsible for the representation of individuals who cannot afford legal representation in criminal cases, abuse and neglect cases, juvenile cases, mental health and involuntary committal cases where the new Brown County Public Defender’s Office has been appointed to represent them. Candidates for this position may be designated “Senior Deputy Public Defender”, depending upon education and experience.

Public Defender’s Office Opening date: 05/27/2026 Closing date: Open until filled Wage: $3,110.75 to $3,884.91, bi-weekly, DOE The Brown County Public Defender’s Office is looking for a Deputy Public Defender to help create its brand-new office. We are considering newly admitted attorneys, attorneys with 20 or more years of experience and everyone in between. (Admission to practice law with the State Bar of South Dakota or ability to obtain admission is required.) This office handles felony and misdemeanor criminal cases; abused and neglected child(ren) cases, juvenile delinquency cases, mental health and involuntary alcohol committal cases.

MAJOR DUTIES • Zealous representation of clients in criminal, abuse and neglect, juvenile, mental health and involuntary committal proceedings. Representation of clients in criminal and juvenile cases happens at all phases of the criminal justice system including initial appearances, arraignments, motions hearings and trials. • Coordinates with and assists the Chief Public Defender and other staff members in providing information to the Courts, Court Administration, Clerk of Courts, County Auditor and County Commission as requested.

Do not let lack of experience in criminal law deter you from applying. We are dedicated to providing training opportunities both internal and external that will include handling these types of cases. We offer on-the-job training that includes proper etiquette in court, negotiation tactics, conducting jury trials, drafting motions, meeting with clients, filing appeals, plus more. You will learn valuable skills at no cost to you that will benefit you for your entire career! With that being said, we hope that is with Brown County.

EDUCATION/AND OR EXPERIENCE REQUIRED • Professional degree (Juris Doctor) Graduation from a college of law and attainment of JD or LLB. • 0-10 years of experience. • Admitted or eligible to be admitted to the South Dakota Bar Association.

The Brown County Public Defender’s Office promotes a team-focused environment where we strive to create a fun and inviting atmosphere while dealing with a difficult but important job, the only one mentioned in the Constitution. (Please see the Sixth Amendment.) We work hard to create 55

KNOWLEDGE REQUIRED BY THE POSITION • Knowledge of local, state, and federal law. • Knowledge of investigative tools and techniques. • Knowledge of trial proceedings. • Knowledge of computers and job-related software programs. • Skill in the completion of legal research. • Skill in producing persuasive legal arguments. • Skill in the analysis of problems and the development and implementation of solutions. • Skill in oral and written communication.

APPLY BY Submit Brown County application or resume to: Brown County Human Resources 25 Market St Aberdeen, SD 57401 Fax: 605-725-2355 Email: Humanresources@browncounty.sd.gov Email: Allison.Tunheim@browncounty.sd.gov

Associate Attorney

SUPERVISORY CONTROLS The Chief Public Defender assigns work according to department goals and objectives. The supervisor reviews work through conferences, reports, and observation of department activities.

Ver Beek Law, Prof. LLC is a well-established and growing law firm dedicated to providing compassionate, strategic, and results-driven representation. We are seeking a versatile Associate Attorney to manage a diverse caseload involving family law, criminal law and estate/probate administration, while providing strategic counsel to clients and maintaining high standards of litigation and document preparation. The ideal candidate is a proactive advocate who can transition seamlessly between sensitive domestic negotiations, rigorous criminal defense, and meticulous estate administration. We pride ourselves on a collaborative work environment and commitment to client service. The ideal candidate has strong legal writing, research, and advocacy skills as well as excellent organizational and time-management skills. Two or more years of experience in family law, criminal law and/or probate and estate administration are preferred, but all attorneys with relevant experience are encouraged to apply. We offer competitive compensation and benefits. Interested applicants may send their cover letter and resume to kelsey@verbeeklaw.com.

GUIDELINES Guidelines include rules of professional conduct, rules of ethics, South Dakota Supreme Court rules, South Dakota codified law, rules of evidence, and county and department policies and procedure. These guidelines require judgment, selection, and interpretation in application. COMPLEXITY/SCOPE OF WORK • The work consists of varied legal duties. The variety of tasks to be performed contributes to the complexity of the position. • The fast pace of the working environment contributes to the complexity of the position. CONTACTS • Contacts are typically with co-workers, legal assistants, other county employees, other attorneys, law enforcement personnel, judges, victims, witnesses, defendants, and members of the general public. • Contacts are typically to provide services; to give or exchange information; to resolve problems; to motivate or influence people; or to justify, defend or negotiate matters.

Office of Attorney General - Appellate Divison Job ID: 36413 Agency: Office of the Attorney General Location: Pierre, SD Salary: $85,000 - $115, 000 Annual Salary, depending on qualifications Pay Grade: L1 - L2 Closing Date: July 10, 2026

PHYSICAL DEMANDS/ WORK ENVIRONMENT • The work is typically performed while sitting at a desk or table or while intermittently sitting, standing, or stooping. The employee occasionally lifts light objects. • The work is typically performed in an office or courtroom.

This is a full-time position with the Office of the Attorney General. For more information on the Office of the Attorney General, please visit http://atg.sd.gov.

SUPERVISORY AND MANAGEMENT RESPONSIBILITY This position may supervise assigned personnel.

The Office of Attorney General has an immediate opening for an Assistant Attorney General (AAG) in our Appellate Division. This position presents an unmatched opportunity to brief and argue cases before the South Dakota Supreme Court, United States District Court, and Eighth Circuit 56

JobBoard=EXTERNAL&csk.HROrganization=1

Court of Appeals. The attorney chosen for this spot will represent the state in criminal appeals, habeas cases, and as a prosecutor for various state licensing boards. The position’s primary duties include researching for and writing appellate briefs and orally arguing cases. AAGs in South Dakota have diverse opportunities attorneys cannot find elsewhere in the state, without the stress of billable hours, and with the benefit of a collaborative, friendly work environment.

This position is exempt from the Civil Service Act. This position is eligible for Veterans’ Preference per ARSD 55:10:02:08. Successful applicant(s) will be required to undergo a background investigation. An arrest/conviction record will not necessarily bar employment. Successful applicant(s) will undergo an abuse and neglect screening. Offers of employment are conditional upon successful completion of a drug screening.

MENTORSHIP AND PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT The office is committed to developing top-notch attorneys. The attorney in this position will receive hands-on experience, direct mentoring from senior attorneys, occasions to work on diverse and evolving caseloads, paid training opportunities, and exposure to complex legal and evidentiary issues.

NCRC: If you possess a National Career Readiness Certificate, please submit the certificate with your application. For more information on how to acquire a National Career Readiness Certificate contact a South Dakota Department of Labor and Regulation Job Service Office. A certificate is not necessary to be considered.

OFFICE LOCATION The Appellate Division is headquartered in Pierre—the “best place to live” in South Dakota according to USA Today in 2018. Pierre is a safe, tight-knit community with over 350 acres of parks, serene landscapes, highly rated restaurants, water and dog parks, friendly people, and an affordable cost of living. A highly experienced applicant may have the possibility to work from a branch office location.

The State of South Dakota does not sponsor work visas for new or existing employees. All persons hired will be required to verify identity and eligibility to work in the United States and complete an Employment Eligibility Verification, Form I-9. The State of South Dakota as an employer will be using E-Verify to complete employment eligibility verification upon hire. The State of South Dakota offers $0 premium employee health insurance option plus eleven paid holidays, generous vacation and sick leave accrual, dental, vision, and other insurance options, and retirement benefits. You can view our benefits information here. This position is a member of Class A retirement under SDRS.

STARTING SALARY Salary for this position ranges from $85,000 to $115,000 annually, depending on experience. On top of a set salary, the State of South Dakota has an exceptional benefit package including retirement, health insurance, paid leave, and paid training opportunities. More information on our benefits package can be found at: https://www.sd.gov/bhra?id=cs_ kb_article_view&sysparm_article=KB0044542&sys_kb_ id=50f994321b4d8b10f6142062f54bcb97&spa=1

South Dakota Bureau of Human Resources and Administration Telephone: 605.773.3148 Email: careers@state.sd.us http://bhr.sd.gov/workforus “An Equal Opportunity Employer”

QUALIFICATIONS Applicants must have a juris doctorate from an accredited law school, be licensed to practice law in South Dakota or can promptly obtain licensure, and have excellent writing, research, and oral advocacy skills. Assistant Attorneys General must uphold the highest degrees of professionalism, integrity, and sound judgment.

Paralegal - Full Time Eekhoff Law, Prof. LLC | Sioux Falls, SD 300 N. Dakota Ave., Suite 215, Sioux Falls, SD 57104

APPLICATION PROCESS Applicants should submit a cover letter, resume containing three references, and a writing sample by July 10, 2026.

About Us Eekhoff Law is an established immigration law firm that has proudly served the Sioux Falls community since 2014. We are dedicated to guiding individuals, businesses, and families through the complexities of the immigration process with compassion, expertise, and integrity. As our firm continues to grow, we are looking for a detail-oriented and motivated Paralegal to join our team.

Submit application materials to Sarah L. Thorne, Appellate Division Chief, Sarah.Thorne@state.sd.us or online at https://css-stateofsouthdako-prd.inforcloudsuite.com/hcm/ Jobs/page/JobsHomePage?csk.showusingxi=true&csk. 57

Position Overview The Immigration Paralegal will develop and maintain support for our attorneys by performing substantive legal work, including case preparation and filing legal documents. The ideal candidate is detail-oriented, highly organized, able to multitask under pressure, and committed to providing exceptional support to clients and staff. This role involves heavy use of legal software for research, document management, and electronic filing.

service when absent more than 24 hours • Schedule consultations, process payments, and set appointment reminders • Greet and assist walk-in clients; encourage scheduled appointments when possible Administrative & Office Support • Assist with case intake, billing, and client management systems • Manage and maintain current client contact information • Conduct client and witness interviews, investigations, and summarize depositions and transcripts as needed • Support general clerical duties including filing, scanning, shredding, and record keeping • May supervise or provide guidance to support staff and student employees • Maintain professional development through seminars, workshops, and professional affiliations to stay current on immigration law

Key Responsibilities Case & Document Preparation • Assist attorneys in preparing cases for interviews, hearings, and court appearances • Conduct preliminary legal and factual research, including local and federal statutes, country conditions, and case law • Draft letters, pleadings, petitions, applications, motions, briefs, contracts, affidavits, declarations, and other legal documents for attorney review • Compile and organize evidence and supporting documentation • File documents with USCIS, the Department of State, NVC, EOIR, BIA, and other court systems as needed

In-Office Responsibilities • Maintain a clean, welcoming reception area; greet all visitors and offer refreshments • Keep coffee stations and mini fridges stocked; wipe down consultation tables between appointments • Ensure office supply inventory is monitored and restocked as needed • Maintain organized physical files in alphabetical order per firm filing procedures • Open and secure the office (lights on in the morning, doors locked at close) • Assist with vacuuming, dusting, and general upkeep of public areas and personal workspace • Take out garbage and recycling as needed; support teammates when additional help is needed

Calendar & Deadline Management • Monitor and maintain the master calendar and attorney schedules • Confirm deadlines, set reminders, and ensure all filings and appearances are met on time • Verify client contact information is accurate for all scheduled appointments • Ensure timely responses to agency requests Client & Case Management • Organize and maintain physical and electronic case files in compliance with firm procedures • Communicate with clients to gather information, provide case status updates, and draft correspondence including close letters • Confirm client appearances for court dates and scheduled appointments • Conduct periodic case status audits and submit case inquiries to USCIS as needed • Maintain detailed case notes so team members can assist clients in your absence

Qualifications & Skills • Strong written and verbal communication skills • High level of professionalism and discretion when handling sensitive information • Exceptional attention to detail with excellent grammar, punctuation, and spelling • Effective time management and the ability to prioritize in a deadline-driven environment • Proficient typing and computer skills; experience with legal software preferred • Experience with scheduling, calendar management, and record keeping • Ability to work independently and collaboratively within a small team • Prior legal or administrative experience preferred • Bilingual in Spanish strongly preferred

Communication & Scheduling • Answer and direct telephone calls; respond to client communications within 24 hours (excluding weekends and holidays) • Monitor and respond to shared email and personal work email • Set out-of-office messages or forward calls to answering 58

Work Hours & Benefits • Full-time | Monday – Friday, 9:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. • Paid federal holidays • Vacation time accrual • Medical insurance (employee covered) • Company-matched IRA

time off. Salary range is $78,518.54 to $102,177.40 and is determined in part based on years of professional experience. Please send a resume and cover letter to Casey Jo Deibert, Hughes County State’s Attorney, 104 E. Capitol, Pierre, SD 57501. Resumes and cover letters will also be accepted via email at casey.deibert@co.hughes.sd.us.

How to Apply Interested candidates are encouraged to submit a resume to casey@eekhofflaw.com. We look forward to hearing from you.

Posting to remain open until the position is filled. All inquiries are confidential. Hughes County is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

Eekhoff Law is an equal opportunity employer committed to building a diverse and inclusive workplace.

Executice Director-East River Legal Services

Deputy State’s Attorney Position, Hughes County

East River Legal Services (ERLS) in Sioux Falls, SD seeks an Executive Director who is a visionary leader. This individual will provide strategic vision, organizational leadership, and resource development to advance ERLS’s mission of expanding access to justice for low-income individuals and families. The Executive Director will articulate the program’s mission and values to garner broad community support, increase the visibility of ERLS, expand services to underserved communities, cultivate funding opportunities, and support a high-functioning and professional team.

Full-time permanent position now open for a Deputy State’s Attorney in the Hughes County Office of the State’s Attorney in Pierre, South Dakota. The Hughes County State’s Attorney’s Office is looking for an attorney to assist in the prosecution of criminal and juvenile matters. This would primarily include juvenile delinquency actions, CHINS petitions, abuse and neglect actions, and some misdemeanor and felony cases. Responsibilities would include presenting cases for legal proceedings, performing legal research, and preparing, drafting and filing legal documents and correspondence. Additional responsibilities include but are not limited to: advising local law enforcement agencies and working with DSS, dealing with juvenile justice issues, providing information to victims and witnesses and helping to fulfill the statutory responsibilities of the office.

Who We Are East River Legal Services (ERLS) is the primary provider of free civil legal aid for low-income individuals and families across eastern South Dakota. Serving 33 counties, ERLS provides legal assistance in matters involving family law, housing, consumer protection, public benefits, and services for vulnerable populations, including veterans, survivors of domestic violence, older adults, and individuals experiencing homelessness.

Applicants must be able to: manage a large case volume and respond quickly and effectively to changing circumstances; speak and write effectively; establish and maintain effective working relationships with coworkers, other agencies, and the public; maintain professional appearance and demeanor.

What You Will Do • Provide overall leadership and management of the organization, ensuring operational excellence, financial sustainability, and mission-driven service delivery. • Supervise grant compliance, ensuring that all reporting requirements, federal or state regulations, and individual grant requirements are met. • Partner with the Board of Directors to establish strategic priorities, support effective governance, and provide regular updates regarding organizational operations, finances, and program outcomes. • Build and maintain strategic relationships with legal aid organizations, courts, community partners, and human services providers to improve access to justice and address gaps in civil legal services throughout the state and region. • Cultivate private donors, engage corporate sponsors, and pursue new grants.

Minimum Qualifications: Applicants must possess a J.D. and be an active member in good standing of the State Bar of South Dakota or be admitted within one year of hiring. Preferred Qualifications: One or more years’ experience is highly preferred. The ideal candidate would have 2 to 5 years’ experience in the abuse and neglect area but will consider all applicants with a strong desire to work on behalf of and ensure the safety of children. Hughes County offers a comprehensive benefits package for employees including health and dental insurance, participation in the SD Retirement System, and paid 59

Sioux Falls, South Dakota is a delightful surprise tucked into the American Midwest—a practical, welcoming city where the prairie meets a lively urban core, all anchored by its namesake waterfalls. Sioux Falls balances an excellent quality of life with a strong economy in a safe, clean environment in southeast South Dakota. For a slice of local life, visit a weekly farmers’ market or pop into a neighborhood coffee shop — conversations here are unpretentious and genuinely welcoming. With a competitive cost of living, no state income tax, and amenities of a community twice its size, such as fine dining, shopping, arts, sports and nightlife, Sioux Falls is a friendly place to call home.

• Work directly with individual donors, Board members, corporate entities, law firms, institutional funders, and foundations. • Serve as the primary ambassador for ERLS, promoting its mission and strengthening relationships with stakeholders, funders, community leaders, and the legal profession. • Lead the development of innovative and clientcentered legal service strategies, including expanded intake systems, community outreach, holistic advocacy, technology-enabled access to services, and interdisciplinary approaches to client support. • Champion access-to-justice initiatives and identify emerging legal needs and service opportunities throughout the ERLS service area. • Oversee the creation and amendment of budgets as needed, with consideration of cost containment where appropriate. • Envision success for the program, developing policies and protocols to support delivery of legal services that advance the program’s mission. • Hire, train, invest in, coach, and lead a highly professional, effective, closely coordinated, selfaccountable staff.

If you want to lead this impactful organization, please submit a current resume and cover letter. The cover letter is an opportunity to showcase your passion for civil legal aid, as well as your organizational expertise in current or prior roles.

Equal Opportunity Employer, including disabled and veterans.

Associate Attorney - Business

What You Will Need • A demonstrated commitment to and understanding of the critical legal needs of low-income individuals and underserved communities. • A J.D. and admission to the South Dakota Bar, or the ability to obtain admission within one year of hire. • A minimum of five (5) years of experience in the practice of law. • A minimum of five (5) years of experience managing people, with demonstrated leadership, supervisory, and team development skills. • Experience in nonprofit management, legal services, or other mission-driven organizations is preferred. • Experience with fundraising, grant administration, budgeting, and organizational leadership is preferred. • Excellent written and oral communication skills, strong critical thinking abilities, and the capacity to build effective relationships with diverse stakeholders.

Company: Halbach|Szwarc Law Firm Location: Hybrid Position based in Sioux Falls, SD Position Type: Full-time About Halbach|Szwarc Law Firm: Halbach|Szwarc Law Firm is a full-service law firm with offices in Sioux Falls, SD, and Sioux City, IA. We are committed to delivering responsive, high-quality legal services across a wide range of practice areas. Our culture is built on collaboration, trust, and professionalism, and every member of our team plays an essential role in supporting our clients and each other. Job Overview: We are seeking a talented and motivated attorney to join our business law team. The ideal candidate will have 3+ years of experience in business and corporate law, including entity formation, contract drafting, mergers and acquisitions, and related areas. This position offers the opportunity to work closely with a diverse range of clients, from entrepreneurs to established businesses, providing legal guidance to support their growth and success.

What We Offer We offer a generous benefits package including: Health Insurance, Prescription Drug Coverage, Telemedicine Services, Dental Insurance, Vision Insurance, Basic Group Term Life/AD&D Insurance, Disability Insurance, an Employee Assistance Program (EAP), a Health Savings Account (HSA), Advocate Support Services, Identity Theft Protection, and a 401(k) Retirement Plan with a 4% match. Relocation assistance available.

Applicants must be licensed in either South Dakota or Iowa and willing to obtain relevant licensure to service clients across Iowa, South Dakota and Nebraska. Candidates with an existing client base are encouraged to apply, though a willingness to develop business and build client relationships is equally important. Halbach|Szwarc attorneys are licensed across South Dakota, Minnesota, Iowa, Nebraska, and Wyoming and serve clients across the 60

U.S. and internationally.

clear communication, thoughtful coordination, and consistent, high-quality work product. • Engage in feedback and continuous improvement with maturity and accountability, modeling a solutionsoriented approach for others on the team. • Uphold confidentiality, discretion, and professionalism in all interactions, especially when navigating complex, sensitive, or high-stakes matters.

Responsibilities: 1. Entity Selection and Formation. Provide legal counsel to clients on business formation, including selecting the appropriate legal structure, drafting formation and related governing documents. 2. Business Document Preparation: Draft and review various agreements, including purchase agreements, lease agreements, asset and real estate purchase agreements and related agreements. 3. Mergers and Acquisitions. Assist clients with structuring, negotiating, and closing mergers, acquisitions, and sales of businesses or assets, with an emphasis on small and closely-held family businesses. 4. Client Interaction: Provide exceptional client communication and service and maintain strong client relationships. 5. Business Development. Engage in efforts to develop new client relationships, build your network, and contribute to the firm’s growth. 6. Remote Collaboration. Work remotely and collaboratively using modern technology to meaningfully engage with clients and team members. 7. Stay Informed: Stay abreast of changes in relevant laws, regulations, and legal trends affecting business and estate planning law.

Benefits: • Competitive salary commensurate with experience. • Unlimited PTO. • 13 paid holidays. • 100% firm paid health insurance. • 100% firm paid vision insurance. • Monthly technology stipend with firm provided remote technology solutions. • Bonus eligibility based upon performance. • Competitive 401(k) and profit sharing. • Paid continuing education expenses. • Collaborative and positive work environment. How to Apply: If you are a motivated, detail-oriented, and client-focused professional with a commitment to excellence, we invite you to apply for the Business Associate Attorney position at Halbach|Szwarc Law Firm. Please submit your resume and a cover letter outlining your relevant experience to Miranda Basye at mirandab@ halbachlawfirm.com.

Qualifications: • Juris Doctor (JD) degree from an accredited law school. • Undergraduate degree in business, economics, finance or accounting preferred, but not required. • 3+ years of experience practicing law with an emphasis on business law. • Strong understanding of business law and tax. • Excellent drafting and negotiation skills. • Strong self-starter with an ability to work independently and remotely, managing a caseload effectively and efficiently. • Willingness to engage in business development and foster long-term client relationships.

Halbach|Szwarc Law Firm is an equal opportunity employer and values diversity in the workplace. We encourage all qualified individuals to apply.

Hiring?

Attitude, Energy, and Effort: • Approach client matters and internal responsibilities with professionalism, sound judgment, and the steadiness. • Bring pride, precision, and strategic thought to your work, recognizing the impact a business attorney has on case outcomes, client trust, and the firm’s broader reputation. • Maintain focused, reliable energy in fast-moving matters; anticipate next steps, identify risks early, and drive progress without the need for oversight. • Demonstrate respect for colleagues and clients through

Find out how you can post your open positions here! Email: tailynn.bradford@sdbar.net

Associate Attorney - Criminal Defense

• Appear in court on behalf of clients for arraignments, hearings, trials, and sentencing, delivering strong and strategic advocacy. • Draft and review legal documents, including motions, briefs, memoranda, and correspondence with clarity, precision, and persuasive legal reasoning. • Maintain consistent and clear client communication, providing education, guidance, and reassurance throughout each step of the legal process. • Contribute to practice development, including building client relationships, expanding referral networks, and supporting the firm’s long-term growth strategy. • Collaborate closely with team members, including attorneys, paralegals, and support staff, in a hybrid environment that values flexibility and shared ownership. • Stay informed on developments in criminal law and procedure, applying emerging trends and case law to strengthen client strategy and outcomes.

Company: Halbach|Szwarc Law Firm Location: Hybrid Position based in Sioux Falls, SD Position Type: Full-time About Halbach|Szwarc Law Firm: Halbach|Szwarc is a full-service law firm with offices in Sioux Falls, SD, and Sioux City, IA. Founded in 2023, we offer a modern, hybrid work environment built on responsiveness, quality, and a people-first culture. Our attorneys serve clients across a broad range of practice areas, including business and real estate law, trust and estate planning, litigation, criminal defense, government investigations, family law, employment and labor, and nonprofit and regulatory matters. We are deeply committed to mentorship, collaboration, and long-term professional growth. Whether you’re just starting your legal career or looking to expand your expertise, you’ll find a supportive team that values your development and trusts you to contribute meaningfully from day one.

Qualifications: • Juris Doctor (JD) degree from an accredited law school. • 3+ years of experience in criminal defense, including trial experience. • High level of professionalism, empathy, and discretion. • Excellent courtroom advocacy, negotiation, and communication skills. • Self-starter with the ability to work independently, manage multiple matters, and meet deadlines effectively in a hybrid work environment. • Willingness to engage in business development activities and foster client relationships.

Behind every client experience is a close-knit team of attorneys, paralegals, legal assistants, and administrative professionals working together to deliver efficient, thoughtful, and client-centered legal solutions. Position Overview: We are currently seeking a skilled and dedicated criminal defense attorney to join our criminal defense practice group. The ideal candidate will have 3+ years of experience handling criminal cases at the state and federal levels, including misdemeanor and felony cases. This individual will play a key role in advocating for clients’ rights and achieving favorable outcomes, whether through negotiation, litigation, or trial and will play a key role in developing and implementing our criminal defense practice strategy. Applicants must be licensed in South Dakota and able to obtain licensure in Iowa and Nebraska. While candidates with an established client base are encouraged to apply, a willingness to develop business and foster new client relationships is equally important. Halbach|Szwarc attorneys are licensed across South Dakota, Minnesota, Iowa, Nebraska, and Wyoming and serve clients across the U.S. and internationally.

Responsibilities: • Lead client representation in criminal matters at the state and federal levels, including misdemeanors and felonies, from initial consultation through resolution. • Manage all phases of a case, including investigation, pretrial motions, discovery, plea negotiations, and trial preparation.

How to Apply: If you are a motivated, detailed oriented, and personable individual with a commitment to excellence and client service, we invite you to apply for the Criminal Defense Associate Attorney position at Halbach|Szwarc Law Firm. Please submit your resume and a cover letter outlining your relevant experience to Miranda Basye at mirandab@ 62

halbachlawfirm.com.

clear and compelling arguments. • Client Relationship Leadership • Serve as a primary point of contact for clients, deliver responsive, clear, and proactive communication. Strengthen existing client relationships and support long-term client retention. • Mentorship & Team Collaboration • Collaborate with associate attorneys, paralegals, and support staff; provide guidance, oversight, and inform mentorship to junior team members as needed. Contribute positively to a hybrid/remote team environment. • Business Development & Practice Growth • Participate in networking and business-development activities; help growth the litigation practice by identifying opportunities, strengthening referral relationships, and developing a personal book of business over time. • Professional Development & Legal Awareness • Stay current on relevant legal developments procedural changes, and statewide and regional trends affecting client matters and litigation strategies.

Halbach|Szwarc Law Firm is an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees.

Senior Attorney - Litigation Company: Halbach|Szwarc Law Firm Location: Hybrid Position| Sioux City, IA area Position Type: Full-time About Halbach|Szwarc Law Firm: Halbach|Szwarc Law Firm is a full-service law firm with offices in Sioux Falls, SD, and Sioux City, IA. We are committed to delivering responsive, high-quality legal services across a wide range of practice areas. Our culture is built on collaboration, trust, and professionalism, and every member of our team plays an essential role in supporting our clients and each other. Position Overview: We are seeking a seasoned and strategic Senior Civil Litigation Attorney to join our growing litigation team. The ideal candidate will bring 7+ years of substantive experience handling complex civil matters, including business disputes, employment litigation, contract disputes, construction claims, and related issues. This attorney will serve as a key leader within the litigation group, providing high-level representation to clients and contributing to the firm’s overall litigation strategy and growth. This role requires demonstrated skill in navigating all phases of litigation including pleadings, discovery, motion practice, mediation, trial, and appeal with the judgment and autonomy expected of a senior practitioner. Candidates must be licensed in Iowa and eligible to become licensed in South Dakota and Nebraska. While candidates with an established practice are preferred, this position is also well-suited for high-performing litigators looking to grow their practice within a modern, entrepreneurial firm. Halbach|Szwarc Law Firm attorneys are licensed across South Dakota, Minnesota, Iowa, Nebraska, and Wyoming and serve clients across the U.S. and internationally.

Qualifications: • Juris Doctor (JD) from an accredited law school. • Minimum 7 years of civil litigation experience, including meaningful trial, deposition, and courtroom experience. • Demonstrated ability to independently manage a diverse litigation caseload from intake through resolution. • Exceptional legal writing, analytical, and research skills. • Strong professional judgment, time management, and communication skills. • Entrepreneurial mindset with a willingness to engage in business development. • Active admission in Iowa; ability to obtain licensure in South Dakota and Nebraska. Attitude, Energy, and Effort: • Approach client matters and internal responsibilities with professionalism, sound judgment, and the steadiness expected of a senior practitioner. • Bring pride, precision, and strategic thought to your work, recognizing the impact a senior litigator has on case outcomes, client trust, and the firm’s broader reputation. • Maintain focused, reliable energy in fast-moving matters; anticipate next steps, identify risks early, and drive progress without the need for oversight. • Demonstrate respect for colleagues and clients through clear communication, thoughtful coordination, and consistent, high-quality work product. • Engage in feedback and continuous improvement with

Responsibilities: • Lead Case Strategy & Management • Oversee and execute all aspects of civil litigation with minimal supervision, including development of case strategy, drafting and responding to pleadings, conducting and managing discovery, and representing clients in hearings, depositions, ediations and trials. Provide creative and practical solutions grounded in strong judgment. • Advanced Legal Research & Writing • Produce high-quality briefs, motions, memoranda, an appellate filings. Translate complex legal issues into 63

• Competitive 401(k) and profit sharing. • Paid continuing education or skills-development opportunities. • Collaborative and positive work environment. How to Apply: If you are a motivated, detail-oriented, and client-focused professional with a commitment to excellence, we invite you to apply for the Senior Attorney position at Halbach|Szwarc Law Firm. Please submit your resume and a cover letter outlining your relevant experience to Miranda Basye at mirandab@halbachlawfirm.com and Alex Halbach at alexh@halbachlawfirm.com.

maturity and accountability, modeling a solutionsoriented approach for others on the team. • Uphold confidentiality, discretion, and professionalism in all interactions, especially when navigating complex, sensitive, or high-stakes matters. Benefits: • Competitive salary commensurate with experience. • Unlimited PTO. • 13 paid holidays. • 100% firm-paid health insurance. • 100% firm-paid vision insurance. • Monthly technology stipend with firm-provided remote technology solutions. • Bonus eligibility based on performance.

Halbach|Szwarc Law Firm is an equal opportunity employer and values diversity in the workplace. We encourage all qualified individuals to apply.

Lawyers Assistance Program Leadership Transition Announcement We are pleased to share an important update regarding the future of the State Bar Lawyers Assistance Program (LAP). As part of our ongoing commitment to supporting the well-being, resilience, and professional success of our members, the State Bar will soon begin the search for new leadership of the Lawyers Assistance Program. This search reflects our dedication to ensuring the continued strength and sustainability of the work and services provided by our current LAP Director, Becky Porter. Becky plans to continue to serve in her role during the transition and will play an integral role in mentoring and training. This thoughtful, collaborative transition plan is designed to maintain continuity of services, program stability, and the high standard of care that Becky has provided to members over the years. With Becky’s continued leadership through the transition, we are confident that the Lawyers Assistance Program will remain a strong and trusted resource for those seeking support and guidance. We extend our sincere appreciation to Becky for her ongoing dedication and for helping to ensure a smooth and successful transition. Additional updates will be shared in the coming weeks. State Bar of South Dakota

Career Opportunity DEPUTY CLERK DISTRICT OF SOUTH DAKOTA

__________________________________________ ABOUT THE COURT

The U.S. District Court for District of South Dakota was established in 1889 when the Dakota Territory was divided into North and South Dakota. The Court handles issues pertaining to federal law within the State of South Dakota and has courthouses in Sioux Falls, Rapid City, Pierre, and Aberdeen. The U.S. District Court consists of federal court chambers, a clerk’s office, and a probation and pretrial services office. The district has three Article III district judges, two senior district judges, and three full-time magistrate judges. Additionally, U.S. Probation has satellite offices in Eagle Butte, Kyle, McLaughlin, Mission, and Winner. Vacancy No.: 06-26 Number of Vacancies: 1 Location: Rapid City, SD Salary: $49,361 - $88,366 CL 25-26 with promotion potential to CL-27 Employment: Permanent, full-time Closing Date: Open until filled, priority given to applications received by June 22, 2026

ABOUT THE POSITION

The U.S. District Court for the District of South Dakota is seeking a full-time deputy clerk in the Rapid City office. The deputy clerk maintains accurate court records through the entirety of criminal and civil court cases through the court’s electronic case management system (CM/ECF), handles cashiering duties with the public, provides a high level of customer service at all times, provides jury operations support, and courtroom support. This position reports to a member of the clerk’s office management team.

POSITION DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES • Perform complex case management transactions such as •

BENEFITS • • • • • • • • • • • •

Paid Annual & Sick Leave Paid Paternal Leave 11 Paid Holidays Employer Subsidized Health Insurance Group Life Insurance Supplemental Vision/Dental Insurance Retirement Benefits Plan (FERS) Thrift Savings Plan (TSP) Flexible Spending Accounts Pre-tax benefit programs Employee Assistance Program (EAP) Telework opportunities

• •

• • • •

opening and closing cases while ensuring the appropriate statistical data. Prepare and process appeals, warrants, subpoenas, notices, and form orders. Answer inquiries from attorneys as well as the public regarding case status and procedural rules. Act as a courtroom deputy for civil and criminal case proceedings. Assist with the orderly flow of proceedings including setting up the courtroom, assuring the presence of all necessary participants, and operating all courtroom technology equipment. Take notes of proceedings and rulings and prepare and docket minute entries. Communicate with outside agencies, counsel, and the public to facilitate orderly case management and case progression. Coordinate the presence of court reporters and court interpreters when needed. Process attorney admission applications, prepare certificates, attend admission ceremonies, and maintain record of admitted attorneys. Assist with jury administration by processing juror summonses and assisting with jury selection/empanelment.

www.sdd.uscourts.gov

POSITION DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES CONTINUED • Organize and arrange naturalization ceremonies. Representative • • • • •

How to Apply Please submit the following: •

Cover letter that supports your work experience as it relates to this position

•

Resume that includes three (3) professional references

•

Completed AO 78 Application for Judicial Branch Federal Employment Forms | United States Courts (uscourts.gov)

•

(Optional) A completed AO78B Voluntary Race/Ethnicity, Gender & Disability Identification Form.

All documents must be emailed in PDF format with “Vacancy 06-26” in the subject line to recruitment@sdd.uscourts.gov. Visit our employment site

duties include preparing programs, sending press releases, and attending ceremonies to assist as needed. Perform records management duties including requesting, maintaining, and returning records to the Federal Records Center, and filing and archiving documents using electronic imaging. Perform cashier functions as outlined in the Internal Control Manual. Communicate clearly and effectively, both orally and in writing. Travel to other locations within the district as required. Other duties as assigned.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATION REQUIREMENTS

• Applicants must be a high school graduate (or equivalent) and possess at least two years of general experience. o To qualify at a CL 25 – CL 26, applicants must possess the education and general experience stated above, plus a minimum of one-year specialized experience. • General experience is considered progressively responsible clerical, office, or administrative work that provided an opportunity to gain specific knowledge and skills related to the functions of a deputy clerk. • Specialized experience is defined as progressively responsible clerical or administrative experience which includes regularly applying rules, regulations, directives, or laws in the workplace and routinely utilizing specialized terminology and automated software systems or equipment for word processing, data entry, and report generation. Such experience is typically found in law firms, legal counsel offices, banks, credit firms, educational institutions, social service organizations, insurance companies, real estate firms, or title companies. • Excellent customer service and problem-solving skills with a high level of technical and computer aptitude is required. Able to communicate effectively (orally and in writing). • Experience and knowledge with electronic case management systems and basic knowledge of federal and local guidelines is required.

EDUCATIONAL SUBSTITUTION

• Education above the high school level may be substituted for required general experience on the basis of one academic year (30 semester or 45 quarter hours) equals one year of general experience.

www.sdd.uscourts.gov

CONDITIONS OF EMPLOYMENT • • • • • •

SELECTION PROCESS The most qualified applicants will be invited to one (or more) personal interview with the court. Applicants selected for interview(s) must travel at their own expense and relocation expenses will not be reimbursed.

Applicants must be a U.S. citizen or eligible to work in the United States. Judiciary employees must adhere to the Code of Conduct for Judicial Employees. Employees of the United States District Court are hired under excepted appointments and are considered “at will” employees. The candidate hired for this position will be subject to an FBI fingerprint record check. This position is subject to mandatory electronic funds transfer participation for payment of net pay (direct deposit). The U.S. District Court reserves the right to amend or withdraw any vacancy announcement with or without written notice to applicants. If a subsequent vacancy of the same position becomes available within a reasonable amount of time after the original announcement has closed, the Court has the right to select a candidate from the original applicant pool of the original vacancy announcement.

THE DISTRICT OF SOUTH DAKOTA IS AN EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER AND COMPLIES WITH THE FAIR CHANCE TO COMPETE ACT

Prior to appointment, the person selected for this position will be required to undergo an FBI fingerprint check as a condition of employment and may be subject to periodic updates. Employment is considered provisional until the background check is successfully completed.

www.sdd.uscourts.gov

JUDICIARY BENEFIT DETAILS Employer Contributions o FERS eligible employees receive judiciary-paid Basic Benefit contributions each pay period o Optional Thrift Savings Plan (TSP) enrollment for pre- or post-tax (Roth) withholdings o Optional TSP catch-up contribution for employees age 50+ o Participating TSP employees receive 100% match for first 3% contributed to the plan and $.50 per dollar on the next 2% o TSP eligible employees also receive an automatic 1% contribution to their TSP plan each pay period o Social Security benefits contributed at 6.2% of employee earnings up to annual SS Wage Base o On average, 72% of an employee’s total health insurance premium is paid by the judiciary with enrollment choices of Employee, Employee +1, and Family coverage • Over 20 different FEHB plan options available with varying deductible and co-pay limits o Judiciary pays 1/3 of the cost for employee’s Basic Life Insurance o Free Employee Assistance Program (EAP) available to employees, spouse, and/or dependents 24/7 Time Off o Annual leave  0-3 years of service accrue 4 hours/pay period  3-15 years of service accrue 6 hours/pay period  15+ years of service accrue 8 hours/pay period o Sick leave: accrue 4 hours/pay period with no limit cap o Bereavement Leave: up to 104 hours of paid bereavement leave per year paid from sick leave bank o Paid Parental Leave: up to 12 weeks of paid leave for childbirth or adoption (eligibility conditions apply) o Bereavement Parental Leave: up to 2 weeks paid for loss of child o Compensation time earned based upon employee classification level o Administrative Leave: discretionary leave granted for voting, emergency closures, etc. o Paid Holidays – minimum of 11 paid holidays per year: New Year’s Day, Martin Luther King Jr. Day, President’s Day, Memorial Day, Juneteenth, Independence Day, Labor Day, Columbus Day, Veteran’s Day, Thanksgiving Day, and Christmas Day Other Judiciary Benefits o 10 different vision insurance plans o 16 different dental insurance plans o Flexible benefit health care reimbursement o Flexible benefit dependent care reimbursement o Paid employee parking o Supplemental life insurance for spouse and children o Accidental Death & Dismemberment (AD&D) insurance coverage o Long-term care insurance o Disability insurance o Disability retirement (eligibility conditions apply) o Professional liability insurance reimbursement o Employee referral bonus o Flexible scheduling/telework opportunities (eligibility conditions apply) o National Leave Transfer Program - donated paid time off for employees needing extended leave due to medical complications, childbirth, or other emergencies o Continuing education and local/national training and informational opportunities: • Judiciary Online University virtual learning + monthly benefit webinars In Retirement o Full continuation of health insurance for employee and spouse with continuation of judiciary-paid premiums (eligibility conditions apply) o If FERS-eligible, receive a monthly paid Basic Benefit annuity with survivor annuity option o Monthly-paid FERS annuity supplement (“social security bridge”) paid by OPM if retiring under age 62 o TSP participant withdrawal options via monthly, annual, or as needed basis with additional options to purchase TSP annuities o Optional continuation of life insurance coverage (eligibility conditions apply) o Fully paid out unused annual leave hours o Unused sick leave hours are converted and added to service credit time increasing monthly FERS payment See the Total Compensation Estimator to see how the judiciary contributes to the benefits of every employee.

Job Title

Senior Deputy State’s Attorney

Department

State’s Attorney Office

Reports To

State’s Attorney

FLSA Classification

Exempt

Revision Date

09/16/2025

SENIOR DEPUTY STATE’S ATTORNEY JOB DESCRIPTION This job description indicates, in general terms, the type and level of work performed as well as the typical responsibilities of employees in this classification. It may be modified at any time at the discretion of the Department Head and Human Resources.

POSITION SUMMARY The Senior Deputy State’s Attorney performs routine professional legal work in the prosecution of civil and criminal crimes, juvenile crimes, and juvenile abuse and neglect cases in Lincoln County. Actual responsibilities of the Senior Deputy State’s Attorney vary dependent upon vacant position but may include reviewing offenses and evidence to make determination on charges and prosecuting violations of state law, reviewing requests for petitions and determining appropriate course of action, communicating with victims, law enforcement officials, and other individuals about cases, making recommendations for child custody and parental rights, and attending legal proceedings.

Minimum Qualifications Graduation from a college of law, attainment of a Juris Doctorate degree from an accredited law school, and admission by the Supreme Court of South Dakota to practice law in the state of South Dakota or be licensed to practice law in any other state and able to take the next available South Dakota bar examination or be a recent or imminent law school graduate, eligible to sit for the next available South Dakota bar examination. Comparable combination of education and experience may be considered. Consideration for appointment of Senior Deputy State’s Attorney requires a minimum of 6 years of relevant work experience and are able to take on a felony caseload.

Preferred Qualifications Currently licensed to practice law in South Dakota. Strong oral argument skills.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities Working knowledge of civil and criminal law and methods and practices of pleadings, court procedures and rules of evidence, principles, methods, materials, and practices utilized in legal research, and general law and established precedents. Ability to prosecute cases. Ability to work under strict time constraints. Ability to speak and write effectively in the preparation and presentation of legal matters. Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with coworkers, other agencies, and the public. Ability to maintain professional appearance and demeanor.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS Essential functions are critical or fundamental to the performance of the job. The following list includes the major functions for which the person in this position is held accountable. Actual daily time spent in any activity fluctuates depending on assigned responsibilities and the particular position within the department. The position may also include other duties as assigned. Incidental or non-essential functions are not included. •

•

• •

•

Prepare and manage a caseload of misdemeanor cases, felonies, juvenile violation cases, or juvenile abuse and neglect cases. Present cases for legal proceedings. Perform legal research. Prepare, draft, and file legal documents and correspondence. Review offenses, police reports, and evidence to make determination on charges. Prepare, send, and track subpoenas for witnesses and records. Prepare and interview witnesses for legal proceedings. Select jurors. Stay informed on changes in relevant laws, statutes, and proposed legislation and policy pertaining to criminal law, juvenile delinquency, and juvenile abuse and neglect. Draft proposed legislation and appear before legislative committees. Communicate, correspond, and collaborate with parties involved in cases including victims, parents, school personnel, attorneys, court personnel, and law enforcement regarding procedures and actions for those cases. This may include after hour and weekend calls from law enforcement on cases that require immediate attention from the State’s Attorney’s Office. Make recommendations for custody, parental rights, sentences, and restitution. Represent the State’s Attorney’s Office at public, private, and inter-governmental programs and events, communicate with the media, prepare press releases, and serve on boards, panels, and task forces. Train and educate volunteers, law enforcement, and social workers on their roles and duties on legal issues and the court process duties. This may include the training of interns, new attorneys, and other staff as assigned. Answer, handle, or direct phone calls and walk-in traffic from law enforcement, the general public, and media regarding legal concerns or inquiries.

WORK ENVIRONMENT The work environment is a standard office setting.

OTHER REQUIREMENTS Travels outside of office as necessary for trial preparation, to counsel clients, attend training sessions, and perform other job-related duties as required. Work may be performed offsite at correctional facility, jail, penitentiary, and courtroom settings.

United States Attorney’s Office District of South Dakota

We’re Hiring!

Assistant United States Attorney The District of South Dakota is home to a dynamic, committed, and energy-filled environment of colleagues who are passionate about achieving justice on behalf of the United States. Job Description. The Criminal Division of the U.S. Attorney's Office in South Dakota is seeking exceptional, motivated attorneys to prosecute federal crime on behalf of the United States. Assistant U.S. Attorneys are entrusted with prosecutorial discretion over robust caseloads. Attorneys benefit tremendously from top-tier training at the National Advocacy Center and from a team of experienced and dedicated colleagues who are experts in the field. There are few moments of professional satisfaction greater than rising to introduce yourself to a judge in federal court and saying: "I represent the United States of America." Work will be varied, never dull, and includes the prosecution of drug trafficking, child exploitation, violent crime, illegal immigration, firearms offenses, national security matters, cybercrime, and white-collar fraud. Candidates should also be capable of prosecuting Major Crimes Act violations in Indian Country including murder, child sex abuse, rape, and other violent crimes. Assistant U.S. Attorneys partner with federal, state, local, and tribal law enforcement agencies to investigate crimes, present criminal cases to a federal grand jury, research and brief legal issues, and represent the United States before the United States District Court and the United States Court of Appeals for the Eighth Circuit. Salary and Benefits. Assistant United States Attorneys enjoy unrivaled salary, extraordinary collateral benefits such as the high performing Thrift Savings Plan 401(k) program, and full health insurance coverage in retirement. To be considered or for more information, visit USAJOBS at: https://www.usajobs.gov/job/870282200 Completed applications will be accepted through July 6, 2026.

Answer the Call! If you're seeking an exciting and fulfilling legal career dedicated to public service, consider applying to become a federal prosecutor. The U.S. Attorney's Office proudly represents the United States in a manner that instills confidence in the fairness and integrity of the criminal justice system. Assistant U.S. Attorneys are charged with upholding the rule of law, protecting civil rights, and ensuring the safety and security of our communities and nation. Join us and be part of a dedicated team enforcing federal criminal and civil laws that protect life, liberty, and the property of all citizens.

UPCOMING

Events

JULY 21

July Law For Lunch

Zoom | 12:30 PM - 1:30 PM CST

For more details and updates about these events, please visit our website. https://www.statebarofsouthdakota.com/