Select your state

Civil litigation

causes of action

Causes of action in civil litigation are specific claims provided by law that serve as the basis for parties to a lawsuit to recover money or property from each other—or to provide other legal or equitable relief, such as a court order requiring or prohibiting some act (injunctive relief). Examples of causes of action include breach of contract, fraud, breach of fiduciary duty, and negligence. Causes of action (also called claims) are usually located in a state or federal statute, or in court opinions (common law).

In South Dakota, causes of action in civil litigation are the legal grounds on which a plaintiff bases their lawsuit to seek remedies such as monetary compensation, the return of property, or injunctive relief. Common causes of action include breach of contract, where one party fails to fulfill the terms of a contract; fraud, involving intentional deception for personal gain; breach of fiduciary duty, where a party violates the trust placed in them by another; and negligence, where a party's failure to exercise reasonable care causes harm. These claims can be found in South Dakota's codified laws or may be derived from common law, which is law developed through court decisions over time. The specific statutes and case law that establish these causes of action provide the framework for how a plaintiff can present their case and what they must prove to obtain relief from the court.

Legal Articles

State Statutes

Individual & Family Legal Plan

As a LegalFix member, you'll get expert legal services from a local law firm that treats you like an important client. Don't wait—be prepared for life's inevitable legal challenges starting today. And ask your employer, credit union, or membership group about preferred pricing opportunities.

Civil litigation

causes of action

Individual & Family Legal Plan

Articles

South-Dakota State Code

South-Dakota State Code

Civil litigation

causes of action

Articles