If you are considering bankruptcy in South Dakota but cannot afford an attorney, free help is available. The organizations below provide legal assistance at no cost to qualifying residents. You can also visit lawhelp.org/SD for the most up-to-date directory of free legal services in South Dakota.
Need immediate help?
Start with lawhelp.org/SD to find the legal aid office nearest you in South Dakota. You can also call your local bankruptcy court (listed below) for information about self-help resources and pro se filing assistance.
Legal Aid Organizations
East River Legal Services
Free legal services for eastern South Dakota.
Dakota Plains Legal Services
Free legal services for western South Dakota and Native American reservations.
Law School Bankruptcy Clinics
University of South Dakota School of Law Clinics
Legal clinics in Vermillion.
Bar Association Pro Bono
State Bar of South Dakota Pro Bono
Contact the bar association for pro bono referrals and reduced-fee attorney programs.
Bankruptcy Courts in South Dakota
These are the federal bankruptcy courts serving South Dakota. Many courts offer self-help desks, pro se workshops, and links to local volunteer attorney programs.
U.S. Bankruptcy Court, District of South Dakota
Visit the court website for self-help resources, forms, local rules, and filing information.
Credit Counseling
Federal law requires two counseling sessions for bankruptcy filers: credit counseling before filing, and debtor education before discharge. Visit the U.S. Trustee's list of approved agencies to find providers approved for South Dakota. Many agencies offer free or reduced-cost sessions for low-income individuals.
Additional Resources
- LawHelp.org/SD -- Find free legal help in South Dakota
- NACBA Find an Attorney -- Locate consumer bankruptcy attorneys (some offer free consultations)
- Browse all states -- Back to the full state directory
- 1328(f) Discharge Screener -- Free tool to check if you are eligible for a bankruptcy discharge