South Dakota Motion for Summary Judgment is a legal process used in court proceedings to request a judgment in favor of one party before the trial begins. This motion is commonly filed by either the plaintiff or the defendant, aiming to dispose of the case without a trial when there is no genuine dispute over key facts or applicable laws. By requesting summary judgment, the party seeks to expedite the legal process, reduce unnecessary costs, and avoid the uncertainties associated with a trial. In South Dakota, there are various types of Motion for Summary Judgment, each pertaining to specific circumstances. These different types include: 1. Partial Summary Judgment: This type of motion is filed when there are multiple claims or issues within a case. A party may request a partial summary judgment to determine the outcome of specific claims or issues before the remaining issues proceed to trial. This streamlines the litigation process and allows parties to focus on unresolved matters. 2. Complete Summary Judgment: In contrast to partial summary judgment, a complete summary judgment motion seeks to resolve the entire case. It asserts that there are no genuine disputes of material facts or questions of law, thus making a trial unnecessary. 3. Summary Judgment as to Liability: This type of motion is commonly employed when the parties agree on the facts but differ on the interpretation of the law or its application. The party filing the motion seeks to establish liability based on undisputed facts, leaving only the determination of damages or other issues for trial. 4. Summary Judgment as to Damages: This motion is typically used when liability is admitted, and the primary issue to be resolved revolves around the appropriate amount of damages. By filing this motion, the party seeks a determination of damages without going through a time-consuming trial. 5. Summary Judgment on Affirmative Defense: Parties may also file a motion for summary judgment based on an affirmative defense. These defenses are assertions that, if proven to be true, excuse or mitigate liability. This motion aims to establish that the affirmative defense is not valid or legally sufficient, thus eliminating the need for a trial on that particular defense. It is essential to note that the specific requirements and procedures for filing a South Dakota Motion for Summary Judgment may vary depending on the local rules of the court and the nature of the case. Therefore, it is crucial to consult with an experienced attorney familiar with South Dakota laws and legal procedures to navigate this process effectively.