Freeman is a city in Hutchinson County, South Dakota, United States. The population was 1,317 at the 2000 census. Located in southeastern South Dakota - in the center of a triangle formed by Sioux Falls, Yankton and Mitchell - the city of Freeman has a population of about 1,300 and serves a community of about 8,000. Established as a railroad stop in 1879, Freeman quickly became a center for immigrants, primarily Germans from Russia, who had arrived in the mid-1870s. The town was not officially incorporated until 1893. By that time, however, Freeman had already become a center for residences, education, commerce and services. And that foretold the town's destiny. Today, Freeman enjoys a strong sense of history and tradition. Freeman's slogan "Rich Heritage, Bright Future" is more than just words. Three examples are the Freeman Area Veterans Memorial along Sixth Street, the Heritage Hall Museum Complex south of the Freeman Academy campus and Schmeckfest, the annual celebration of the ethnic foods and traditions held every spring. The community continues to reflect the agricultural base on which Freeman was established 130 years ago. But today this thriving city also reflects a broad-based economy that includes strong retail, professional services and manufacturing components. The community's commitment to education - as demonstrated by two strong schools - is balanced by its appeal as a retirement center. The comprehensive medical services and sense of community appeal both to families seeking a good environment for raising children and senior citizens wanting to retire in comfort and security.

What is criminal appeals law?

A criminal appeal is a formal request to rehear a case that has already been decided -- a request that a new court reconsider the decision of the first court. When one or both sides of a case that has already been decided think there was a mistake made at trial, they can file an appeal. An appeal is entirely different than a jury trial. There is no testimony taken. The court of appeals decides the case entirely upon the written briefs filed by your attorney and the offie of the Attorney General who represents the prosecution and asks that the conviction be upheld.

Answers to criminal appeals law issues in South Dakota

After conviction and sentencing, a defendant has the opportunity to file an appeal of his sentence. If the conviction...