Disability Rights South Dakota – Pierre, SD

Protecting the Rights of South Dakotans with Disabilities

Disability Rights South Dakota (DRSD) is a vital non-profit legal services agency based in Pierre, South Dakota. As the designated Protection and Advocacy (P&A) system for the state, DRSD has a federally mandated mission to protect and advocate for the rights of individuals with disabilities. This organization is not a traditional law firm but a specialized legal aid provider that offers free legal assistance to those who are often marginalized or overlooked by the justice system. Their team of attorneys and advocates works tirelessly to ensure that people with disabilities can live with dignity, self-determination, and freedom from abuse.

Advocacy and Legal Services

DRSD provides a wide range of services designed to address the unique legal challenges faced by the disability community. Their work includes:

• Rights Protection: Investigating reports of abuse and neglect in facilities and community settings to ensure safety and proper care.
• Discrimination: Representing individuals who have faced discrimination in housing, employment, or public accommodations in violation of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA).
• Special Education: Advocating for students’ rights to a free and appropriate public education (FAPE) in the least restrictive environment.
• Social Security: Assisting beneficiaries with issues related to Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) and Supplemental Security Income (SSI), particularly regarding return-to-work efforts.
• Voting Rights: Ensuring that polling places are accessible and that individuals with disabilities can exercise their right to vote independently.

A Statewide Resource

While headquartered in Pierre, Disability Rights South Dakota serves the entire state. They prioritize cases that have the potential to set legal precedents or effect systemic change. Their services are typically free of charge to eligible individuals. If you or a loved one has a disability and feels that your rights are being violated, DRSD is the primary resource to find a lawyer or advocate who understands disability law inside and out. They empower clients by providing them with the tools and knowledge to advocate for themselves whenever possible.

Office on Franklin Street

The main office is located at 2520 E Franklin St in Pierre. This location serves as the hub for their statewide operations. The facility is fully accessible, reflecting the organization’s commitment to inclusivity. They also maintain satellite presence in other major South Dakota cities to better reach the population.