South Dakota · SD
A plain-English reference to South Dakota custody terminology, joint custody, parenting time, relocation, child preferences, and order changes.
SDCL § 25-4-45; SDCL ch. 25-4A (parenting time guidelines). In South Dakota, courts generally describe the schedule as a shared parenting time guidelines. The court's decision is based on the child's best interests, not simply a parent's preferred percentage of time.
No presumption; South Dakota publishes statewide parenting time guidelines as a default.
Considered where the child is of sufficient maturity.
Notice to the other parent is required; a move is evaluated on best interests.
A parent must show a substantial and continuing change in circumstances since the last order, and that a change serves the child's best interests.
Under the UCCJEA the child generally must have lived in the state for the 6 months before filing (or since birth, if younger). The state publishes 'Shared Parenting Time Guidelines' as the default schedule.
Put regular time, holidays, exchanges, communication, and dispute steps in one written plan. Then keep the actual schedule and handoffs organized as circumstances change.
South Dakota applies the statute or rule summarized above and decides parenting time by the child's best interests. Read the official court resource before filing.
Notice to the other parent is required; a move is evaluated on best interests.
A parent must show a substantial and continuing change in circumstances since the last order, and that a change serves the child's best interests.
Compare the rule with your written plan, schedule, and records before you file or negotiate.
Filing venue, required classes, and the terminology each state's courts use.
2-2-3, 2-2-5-5, week-on/week-off, and every other common rotation.
Count overnights across a full cycle the way state worksheets do.
One-click evidence packets for your attorney or a hearing — unlimited and free.
Applies your state's own guideline model to your numbers.
Terminology, parent-education requirements, and filing venue are taken from each state's court self-help materials and statutes. Requirements change — confirm with the court where you file.
CustodyTrac publishes educational information, not legal advice. Custody and support outcomes depend on facts a calculator cannot see — confirm anything that matters with a family law attorney in your state.