South Dakota’s legislature has dedicated $3 million to enhance its public defense system, addressing the critical need for legal representation for individuals unable to afford it. This funding stems from the establishment of a new statewide indigent defense board under House Bill 1057, which also aims to ease county costs based on their previous expenditures.
Neil Fulton, dean of the University of South Dakota School of Law, highlighted that the funds will significantly support counties, especially those with high case volumes, like Minnehaha and Pennington, which are receiving over half of the allocated amount. Fulton expressed satisfaction with the board’s progress, noting the appointment of Chris Miles, a seasoned public defender, as the first state indigent defender. The goal is to have the new office operational by early 2025.
Fulton emphasized the vital role public defenders play in ensuring basic human dignity and providing support during clients’ most challenging times. He encouraged young lawyers to consider careers in indigent defense, underscoring its profound impact on the legal system and the lives of those served. The right to indigent defense is enshrined in the Sixth Amendment of the U.S. Constitution.