The South Dakota Commission on Indigent Legal Services is set to hold a virtual meeting on Wednesday, October 16, 2024, at 11 a.m. CDT. This commission is responsible for overseeing indigent legal services in the state's court system, ensuring that individuals have access to counsel under state or federal law. Additionally, it supervises the Office of Indigent Legal Services to provide statewide representation for indigent individuals in criminal appeals, habeas corpus cases, and cases involving abuse or neglect of children.
The meeting's agenda will feature a report from Chief Defender Chris Miles concerning the transition of the new Office of Indigent Legal Services. There will also be a discussion about the Sixth Amendment Center's report titled “The Right to Counsel in South Dakota: Evaluation of Trial-Level Indigent Defense Representation in Adult Criminal Cases,” along with planning the commission's next steps.
This session has been organized by the South Dakota Unified Judicial System State Court Administrator’s Office on behalf of the South Dakota Office of Indigent Legal Services. Those requiring assistance under the Americans with Disabilities Act are encouraged to contact State Court Administration at 605-773-3474 at least 48 hours prior to make necessary arrangements.