UJS Press Releases & News
View press releases from and news about the South Dakota Unified Judicial System.
Recent News From UJS
South Dakota Recognizes Clerks and Deputy Clerks of Court Week
Gov. Larry Rhoden has proclaimed the week of Sept. 14, 2026, as Clerks and Deputy Clerks of Court Week in South Dakota, recognizing the important role these professionals play in the administration of justice and in serving the public.
People Charged with Crimes Find Hope in County Diversion Programs
"It works if you want it": People charged with crimes find hope in county diversion programs. Limited local adoption fuels discussion about pursuing state funding.
Pennington County Veterans Court Honors Latest Graduates in Public Ceremony
Established in 2016, Pennington County Veterans Court provides a crucial sentencing alternative for justice-involved veterans. A recent graduation ceremony highlights a decade of restorative justice and treatment for South Dakota veterans.
Unified Judicial System Wants to Hear from Court Users
As part of our ongoing work to build public trust and confidence in the courts through transparency, communication, education and community engagement, the South Dakota Unified Judicial System (UJS) wants to hear from members of the public about their experiences with the state court system.
Pennington County Veterans Court to Hold Graduation on September 3
Seventh Judicial Circuit is proud to announce the next graduation ceremony for participants completing the Pennington County Veterans Court program.
Fourth Circuit DUI Court Graduation to be Held in Deadwood on August 27
Fourth Circuit DUI Court will hold a graduation ceremony on Thursday, Aug. 27, 2026, at noon MDT in the upstairs courtroom at the Lawrence County Courthouse, 78 Sherman St., Deadwood.
UJS to Hold Public Forums to Discuss Potential Merger of Fourth and Seventh Judicial Circuits
The South Dakota Unified Judicial System (UJS) will hold a series of public forums Wednesday, Aug. 26, 2026, to share information and gather public input on a potential merger of the Fourth and Seventh judicial circuits before any formal rule proposal is submitted to the South Dakota Supreme Court.
Mental Health Court Offers Path Forward for Participants
For some people, entering the criminal justice system can become a cycle that is difficult to break. Learn how Second Circuit Mental Health Court is helping people in the justice system get treatment for mental illness and substance use instead of just facing punishment.
Second Circuit Treatment Courts to Hold Two Graduations in August
Second Circuit Treatment Courts will hold two graduation ceremonies in August.
Brookings County Drug & DUI Court to Hold Graduation on August 20
Brookings County Drug & DUI Court will hold a graduation ceremony on Thursday, Aug. 20, 2026, at 10 a.m. CDT in Courtroom A (third floor) of the Brookings County Courthouse, 314 Sixth Ave., Brookings.