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Experience You Can Trust. Care You Can Feel.

Beresford Criminal Defense Attorney Protecting Your Freedom

Facing criminal charges in South Dakota can feel frightening, and it is completely normal to feel unsure of what comes next. At Katie Johnson Law, PLLC, I believe that good people make mistakes and bad situations happen. You should not have to walk into court alone to take on this challenge.

A criminal conviction carries real consequences, from steep fines and lost driving privileges to potential jail time. Living and working right here in Beresford, I take pride in being an accessible neighbor. I provide practical, straightforward and affordable legal support when you need it most. My goal is simple: protect your rights, lessen the impact on your life and help you move forward with confidence.

Direct, Compassionate Defense Across Lincoln, Clay And Union Counties

Every criminal charge is unique. From my office in Beresford, I represent clients across Lincoln, Clay and Union counties, providing dedicated defense for a wide range of legal matters:

  • DWI/DUI: Whether it is a first offense or you are dealing with repeat DWI charges, I act quickly to protect your driver’s license, job and freedom.
  • Traffic violations: From speeding to serious violations like drag racing, keeping offenses off your record helps protect your insurance rates and driving privileges.
  • Drug crimes: Charges involving the possession or use of controlled substances carry heavy penalties. I challenge the evidence, evaluate diversion programs and fight to keep charges off your record.
  • Assault and violent allegations: Misdemeanor and felony assault accusations demand a grounded defense strategy that presents your side of the story accurately.
  • Misdemeanors and felonies: From local property offenses to serious felony counts, I guide you through every step of the court process.

I handle all levels of criminal charges, from minor misdemeanors to serious felony counts. No matter what you are facing, I deliver personalized defense strategies tailored to your life and your goals.

How We Fight Your Charges Together

A strong defense is not one-size-fits-all. It starts with examining every detail of your case. I review police reports, body camera footage and witness statements to find where law enforcement may have overstepped:

  • Did officers have a legitimate reason to pull you over or stop you?
  • Were your rights protected during questioning?
  • Were chemical, field sobriety, or search procedures conducted properly?

Uncovering errors or procedural gaps often opens the door to reduced charges, alternative programs or dismissal. Throughout the process, I keep you informed and involved so you can make confident decisions about your future.

Answers To Common South Dakota Criminal Defense Questions

Here are clear answers to some of the most common concerns my clients have when facing charges in local South Dakota courts.

Do I need a lawyer for a misdemeanor?

Yes. While a misdemeanor is less severe than a felony, it is still a criminal charge that carries up to a year in jail, significant fines and a permanent criminal record. Having a defense attorney helps protect your rights and avoid long-term fallout.

Can a DWI be dismissed in South Dakota?

It is possible under specific circumstances. If law enforcement lacked reasonable suspicion to pull you over or improperly administered tests, key evidence may be suppressed. Without that evidence, prosecutors may be forced to reduce or dismiss the charges.

How long does a DWI stay on your record in South Dakota?

A DWI conviction stays on your criminal record permanently unless expunged under rare conditions. South Dakota also uses a 10-year “lookback period” for driver’s license revocations and enhanced penalties for repeat offenses.

Regain Your Peace Of Mind Today

You do not have to carry the stress of a criminal charge by yourself. Let’s sit down for a free, confidential 30-minute consultation to review your case, address your concerns and map out a clear path forward together.

Call my Beresford office at 605-476-3918 or fill out my online form to get started.