Bill > HB1270

This bill establishes a legal apprenticeship pathway in South Dakota, allowing individuals to practice law without attending a traditional law school if they meet specific criteria. To qualify, an applicant must be a graduate of the University of South Dakota School of Law, be a resident of South Dakota throughout the apprenticeship, and complete 675 hours of supervised apprenticeship under a qualified attorney within the state. A supervising attorney must be licensed, in good standing, and have at least seven years of full-time legal practice experience. The supervising attorney will certify that the apprentice has completed the required hours within a year, demonstrated satisfactory performance, and shown knowledge of legal ethics. Applicants will also need to pass a criminal background investigation before being licensed. Upon successful completion of all requirements, the apprentice will be granted a license to practice law, with the condition that they must perform at least 50 hours of pro bono (free) legal services annually for the first five years after licensure.

Justice

https://sdlegislature.gov/#/Session/Bill/27060