Like many small business owners, you may occasionally need the advice of a South Dakota law firm. Whether you want to change your business's status or need assistance with a contract dispute, seeking the advice of professional counsel familiar with the laws of South Dakota not only makes sense, it may save you money over time.

South Dakota state laws include its constitution, statutes and supreme court decisions. Federal laws and local municipal codes and ordinances may also affect you. By working with an attorney, you can work proactively, as you protect your business from future liability, as well as have assistance in dealing with any current legal concerns.

As you consult with South Dakota law firms, consider the following:

1. Accessibility--Especially if you live in a rural area, geography may play a role as you find a South Dakota attorney.

2. Trustworthiness--Although subjective in nature, it may be worthwhile to you to find a South Dakota lawyer who can represent your business's needs as they develop over the years. If so, you will want to feel comfortable working with that attorney.

3. Specialty--Depending on your needs, you may want an attorney who works regularly within a specific area of the laws of South Dakota.

Action Steps
The best contacts and resources to help you get it done

Consult a firm knowledgeable with the laws in South Dakota as you plan your business's future

Many South Dakota law firms may be able to assist you with plans to form a partnership, corporation or limited liability company.

I recommend: Located in Sioux Falls, Boyce, Greenfield, Pashby and Welk, LLP prides itself on relationships it has built with clients over the years. It has many practice areas, including business law. If you want a smaller firm, Gary W. Conklin Attorney PC works throughout Southeast South Dakota and also specializes in business law. In Rapid City, Gunderson, Palmer, Nelson and Ashmore, LLP has a business planning team that may be ready to help you with your short and long-term goals.

Find a South Dakota law firm for your litigation needs

When business disputes do arise, it may be helpful to you to work with an attorney knowledgeable with South Dakota state laws.

I recommend: Davenport, Evans, Hurwitz and Smith, LLP of Sioux Falls has many practice area specialties, including those related to commercial litigation, businesses and real estate. In Rapid City, DeMesseman, Jensen, Christianson, Stanton and Huffman, LLP works with a variety of businesses in the western South Dakota region and may be able to help you with your litigation needs.

Work with a South Dakota law firm who can help you with your unique concern

Many South Dakota law firms have specialized areas of practice. Whether you need someone who can help you with a trust, intellectual property or an employee's immigration status, an online directory of South Dakota attorneys may be able to help you find someone whose expertise lies within your area of concern.

I recommend: Attorney Locate, Inc.'s user friendly directory allows you to find attorneys who work with the laws in South Dakota by city and then by specialty. FindLaw's directory of attorneys licensed to practice South Dakota law assists you in locating attorneys first by location, and then by area of expertise.

Tips & Tactics

Helpful advice for making the most of this Guide

• •  When you meet with a South Dakota attorney for the first time, ask about fees, who else may be handling your case and possible timelines and scenarios, as well as how you should best reach your new attorney, if you do choose to hire him or her.