If a person charged with a criminal offense (crime) or an infraction or civil violation (a traffic ticket) enters a no-contest plea, the person does not admit their guilt, but admits the truth of the facts alleged by the government. A no-contest plea results in a conviction but may not be used against the person charged (the defendant) in a later civil lawsuit for money damages.

A no-contest plea means the defendant will not contest the charges against the defendant. This plea option is sometimes written as nolo contendere, which is the Latin term for “I do not wish to contend.”

The decision to plead no contest can have significant long-term consequences and a defendant should consult with a criminal defense lawyer before making such a decision.

In South Dakota, a no-contest plea, also known as nolo contendere, is a type of plea where the defendant does not admit guilt but acknowledges that the prosecution has sufficient evidence to prove the charge. This plea results in a conviction similar to a guilty plea, but it cannot be used as an admission of guilt in a subsequent civil lawsuit for money damages. However, not all states allow no-contest pleas, and the availability of this option can vary depending on the nature of the charges and the specific laws of South Dakota. It's important for a defendant to understand the implications of a no-contest plea, as it can have significant legal consequences. Therefore, it is highly recommended that a defendant consult with an attorney to fully understand their rights and the potential outcomes before entering such a plea.