The South Dakota Unified Judicial System (UJS) safeguards the rights of every citizen and assures due process of law. The government must respect all the legal rights that are owed to a person according to the law. Everyone has the right to a fair trial, the right to be heard, and a chance to defend themselves before any government action. Established in 1975 through a constitutional amendment, the UJS operates under a unified structure comprising the South Dakota Supreme Court, circuit courts and magistrate courts.
Our Mission: The Unified Judicial System (UJS) is dedicated to providing a fair, impartial, and accessible court system that upholds the rule of law and is worthy of the public’s trust and confidence.
Our Vision: Justice for All.
UJS Strategic Plan
The UJS' 2025-2028 Strategic Plan reflects our ongoing commitment to providing a judicial system that not only upholds the rule of law but also earns the trust and confidence of every person who walks through our courthouse doors. It reaffirms our mission to deliver justice that is impartial, accessible, and grounded in the highest ethical standards.
Our vision—Justice for All—speaks to the very heart of our work. It is a reminder that the courts exist for everyone, and our efforts must meet the needs of the people we serve, no matter their background, circumstance, or walk of life. To fulfill this vision, we have identified six strategic pillars that will shape our priorities in the years ahead, addressing the evolving challenges and opportunities within the
justice system.
