SDCL § 25-4A-34: Custody evaluator appointment at party request or on court's own motion.

At the request of either party, or on the court’s own motion, a custody evaluator may be appointed in any custody or parenting time proceeding. The parties may agree to use a custody evaluator, subject to approval by the court, or the court may designate a custody evaluator for the parties to use.

Commission Note: By order dated June 3, 2026, the Supreme Court delayed the effective date of Rule 26-07 from July 1, 2026, to December 31, 2026.