The proposed bill establishes a legal apprenticeship pathway for individuals seeking to become licensed attorneys in South Dakota. It outlines specific requirements for applicants, including being a graduate of the University of South Dakota School of Law, a resident of South Dakota during the apprenticeship, and completing 675 hours of supervised apprenticeship under a qualified supervising attorney. The bill also specifies the qualifications for supervising attorneys, who must be licensed and in good standing for at least seven years, and mandates that they certify the apprentice's completion of the program and their proficiency in legal ethics.

Additionally, the bill requires that all applicants undergo a criminal background investigation before licensure. Upon successful completion of the apprenticeship and certification by the supervising attorney, the apprentice will be granted a license to practice law. Furthermore, as a condition of licensure, newly licensed attorneys must perform a minimum of 50 hours of pro bono legal services annually for five years following their licensure.