Opinion ID: 901045
Heading Depth: 1
Heading Rank: 4

Heading: Definition of Frivolous Lawsuit

Text: [¶ 6.] In our review we look to SDCL 15-17-51 and prior caselaw in which it has been interpreted. SDCL 15-17-51 mandates the court to grant expenses and attorney fees if, (1) the civil action is dismissed and, (2) if the court determines that it was frivolous or, (3) if it was brought for malicious purposes. The statute provides in full: If a civil action or special proceeding is dismissed and if the court determines that it was frivolous or brought for malicious purposes, the court shall order the party whose cause of action or defense was dismissed to pay part or all expenses incurred by the person defending the matter, including reasonable attorney's fees. Id. Our prior interpretations of this statute define a frivolous action as one in which the proponent can present no rational argument based on the evidence or law in support of the claim.... Michlitsch, 1999 SD 69, ¶ 19, 594 N.W.2d at 734. In order [t]o fall to the level of frivolousness there must be such a deficiency in fact or law that no reasonable person could expect a favorable judicial ruling. Ridley v. Lawrence County Comm'n., 2000 SD 143, ¶ 14, 619 N.W.2d 254, 259.