SDCL § 15-39-45: Uniform rules of practice for circuit and magistrate courts--Purpose and scope of rules--Exemplary damages restricted.

The Supreme Court may amend and repeal uniform rules of practice applicable to circuit and magistrate courts in this state, providing for a simple, informal, and inexpensive procedure, hereinafter called the procedure, for the determination according to the rules of substantive law, of claims in the nature of contract or tort, other than slander and libel; for the collection of fees, costs, or civil penalties assessed by local governmental entities; and for review of judgments upon such claims when justice so requires.

Exemplary or punitive damages may not be awarded under this chapter, except as provided in chapter 60-11, chapter 22-30A, and §§ 43-32-6 and 43-32-24.