Court procedures generally refers to the strict processes and procedures the parties to a civil lawsuit must follow during the pretrial, trial, and posttrial phases of civil litigation. These procedures are usually defined and set forth in detail in the applicable rules of civil procedure, rules of court, and local rules.
In South Dakota, court procedures for civil litigation are governed by the South Dakota Codified Laws and the South Dakota Rules of Civil Procedure. These rules outline the processes that parties must follow from the initiation of a lawsuit through its resolution, whether by trial or settlement. The procedures cover various aspects such as filing complaints, serving documents, conducting discovery, motion practice, and trial conduct. Additionally, local rules may apply depending on the specific judicial circuit. These rules are designed to ensure fairness and efficiency in the legal process and to provide a framework for resolving disputes in a systematic manner. It is important for parties involved in civil litigation to understand and adhere to these rules to avoid delays and potential penalties.