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Legal Information: South Dakota

Restraining Orders

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Updated: 
November 28, 2023

Step 1 - Get the necessary forms.

To start your case, you will need to fill out the necessary forms for a protection order.  You can file a petition in the county where you live, or in the county where the abuser lives.  You can find the forms from the civil clerk at the courthouse, but you may want to find them before you go and fill them out at home or with an advocate from a local domestic violence program.  You will find links to forms online on the SD Download Court Forms page.  Most shelters and other domestic violence prevention organizations can provide support for you while you fill out these papers and go to court.  Go to SD Advocates and Shelters to find an organization in your area.