SD HB1270

Creates a legal apprenticeship pathway allowing University of South Dakota School of Law graduates to become licensed attorneys without passing the bar exam

Requires applicants to be South Dakota residents and complete 675 hours of supervised apprenticeship within one year under a qualified attorney in the state

Supervising attorneys must be licensed, in good standing, and have at least 7 years of full-time legal practice experience in South Dakota

Apprentices must pass a criminal background investigation and receive certification from their supervising attorney confirming satisfactory performance and proficiency in legal ethics

Attorneys licensed through this pathway must perform 50 hours of pro bono legal services annually for 5 years following licensure