(Pierre, SD) — There’s a lack of civil legal aid services across South Dakota, according to a new study. The recently published statewide legal needs assessment was a partnership between East River Legal Services, Dakota Plains Legal Services and Access to Justice. The study surveyed and conducted in-depth interviews with community partners and potential clients across South Dakota. What is unique to the South Dakota civil legal crisis is the lack of lawyers in rural areas, leaving many people to represent themselves in court. The study also surveyed populations that commonly come in contact with the civil legal system and the issues they face.
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