Arrested in the counties of Meade or Lawrence during the Sturgis Motorcycle Rally? Here are some answers to common questions that run through one’s head the night of their arrest. If by chance you even skimmed this piece hopefully some advice is gleaned if end up...
Drug arrests along Interstate 90 in South Dakota often begin as ordinary traffic stops. Knowing why this happens and what the officers can do allows you to prepare yourself for any scenario. Factors that elevate suspicion Beyond the reason for the stop, officers may...
The Sturgis Rally promises a memorable week. Yet a wrong assumption about marijuana could lead to criminal charges. If you are attending South Dakota’s largest motorcycle gathering, knowing the cannabis rules can help you avoid choices that may disrupt your plans....
When you are facing an imminent threat, you have a right to fight back without attempting to run away first. In South Dakota, the stand your ground law provides specific protections for individuals who need to defend themselves, their families or their property from a...
The Sturgis Motorcycle Rally draws hundreds of thousands of people to western South Dakota each August. If you are planning to attend this event, it may be prudent to know what actions might lead to unexpected encounters with law enforcement and your defense options...
You may think of a prank as harmless fun. Maybe you want to get a laugh, pull a stunt or create a story you and your friends will talk about later. However, some pranks can lead to criminal charges when they involve property damage, trespassing or conduct that puts...
If you have been pulled over on suspicion of driving under the influence (DUI) in South Dakota, an officer may ask you to take part in field sobriety tests. These exercises are designed to help officers find evidence of impairment. However, they are not always...
Civil forfeiture is one of the few areas of American law where the government can take your property without proving you did anything wrong. It is legal, it is common along the I-90 corridor in western South Dakota and most people who experience it have no idea it was...
If you have ever wondered whether breathalyzer tests are always right, the answer might surprise you. While law enforcement typically uses them in driving under the influence (DUI) cases, several factors can affect their accuracy. Understanding these issues could be...
A single punch in a bar can change your life forever. You might think you acted in self-defense, but the police often see things differently. When the music stops and the sirens start, the line between a victim and a defendant can vanish quickly. Defining the charge...