South Dakota Codified Laws 23A-24-11. Introduction of certified therapeutic dog–Motion–Contents
Before the introduction of a certified therapeutic dog into the courtroom, the party desiring to utilize the presence of a certified therapeutic dog shall, outside the presence of the jury, file a motion containing the following information:
(1) The credentials of the certified therapeutic dog;
Terms Used In South Dakota Codified Laws 23A-24-11
- Testimony: Evidence presented orally by witnesses during trials or before grand juries.
- Trial: A hearing that takes place when the defendant pleads "not guilty" and witnesses are required to come to court to give evidence.
(2) The credentials of the certified handler;
(3) That the certified therapeutic dog is adequately insured;
(4) That a basic relationship has been established between the child witness, or the witness having a developmental disability, and the certified therapeutic dog in anticipation of testimony;
(5) That the certified therapeutic dog is capable of sitting quietly for extended periods of time; and
(6) That the presence of the certified therapeutic dog may reduce anxiety experienced by the child witness or the witness having a developmental disability while testifying in the criminal trial or hearing.
Source: SL 2020, ch 102, § 2.