I was just summoned for 6 months in Lawrence County. I explained to the judge that I was a full-time traveler, was 1300 miles away, etc., and asked to be excused. He said that since I reap the benefits of SD residency, I must also assume the responsibilities. He denied my request.
On a subsequent call to my PMB provider, I was told "you should have called us first." At least in Lawrence County, I was told that they will routinely deny full-time travelers because they figure they have time and money on their hands. I wish I had known that beforehand and I would have been more careful. Beware of some of the other posts on this forum that make it seem like the courts will excuse you no questions asked. For me at least, nothing could be further from the truth. Speak with your PMB provider first. They will tell you exactly what to say, which is very different from what you might be inclined to say based on some of the other comments on this board.