Establishes an apprenticeship pathway for University of South Dakota School of Law graduates to become licensed attorneys in South Dakota.

South Dakota HB1270 creates a legal apprenticeship program for University of South Dakota School of Law graduates to become licensed attorneys. To qualify, applicants must be South Dakota residents, complete 675 hours of supervised apprenticeship under a qualified attorney, and pass a criminal background check. Upon meeting these requirements, apprentices receive a license to practice law. Newly licensed attorneys must perform 50 hours of pro bono legal services annually for five years.

Establishes an apprenticeship pathway for University of South Dakota School of Law graduates to become licensed attorneys in South Dakota.

South Dakota HB1270 creates a legal apprenticeship program for University of South Dakota School of Law graduates to become licensed attorneys. To qualify, applicants must be South Dakota residents, complete 675 hours of supervised apprenticeship under a qualified attorney, and pass a criminal background check. Upon meeting these requirements, apprentices receive a license to practice law. Newly licensed attorneys must perform 50 hours of pro bono legal services annually for five years.