New South Dakota Guardianship Training Requirements

On July 1, 2021, South Dakota enacted two new laws that require specific training for persons appointed or seeking to become appointed as guardians and conservators. South Dakota Codified Law 29A-5-119 provides that the training set up by the State Bar of South Dakota must inform all guardians and conservators of the rights of minors and protected persons, the duties and responsibilities of guardians and conservators, reporting requirements, provide least restrictive options for necessities that must be supplied, and resources to assist guardians and conservators to fulfill their duties.

Every guardian or conservator appointed prior to July 1, 2021, has four months to complete the training. Likewise, a guardian or conservator seeking appointment after July 1, 2021, will not be appointed until the training has been completed. If a guardian or conservator appointed prior to July 1, 2021, does not complete the training with the four-month time period, he or she is subject to removal pursuant to South Dakota law.

If you have been appointed as a guardian or conservator, or are seeking such appointment, visit SDBAR : Guardianship and Conservatorship Training (statebarofsouthdakota.com). For more information on guardianships or conservatorships, contact the Goosmann Law Firm at info@goosmannlaw.com or 855-843-4531.