SDCL § 26-8A-1: Purpose of chapter.

It is the purpose of this chapter, in conjunction with chapter 26-7A, to establish an effective state and local system for protection of children from abuse or neglect. Adjudication of a child as an abused or neglected child is an adjudication of the status or condition of the child who is the subject of the proceedings and is not necessarily an adjudication against or in favor of any particular parent, guardian, or custodian of the child.