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Strategic Plan

Learn about the South Dakota Unified Judicial System's strategic plan, mission and vision, six strategic pillars and goals for 2025 to 2028.

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.

VISION
Justice for All. 

A Message from Chief Justice Steven R. Jensen

Welcome to the South Dakota Unified Judicial System (UJS) strategic plan—a roadmap to guide our courts in serving the people of South Dakota with fairness, integrity, and excellence. This 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.

Read the Chief Justice's Full Message

Strategic Pillars

1. Enhancing Access to Justice for Court Users
Enhancing access to justice by eliminating barriers and ensuring all court users can access court programs and services.

2. Building Public Trust and Confidence
Building trust and confidence in the courts through transparency, communication, education, and community engagement.

3. Effective Court Operations and Services
Delivering transparent services responsive to the needs of court users that are based on data-driven decisions to ensure efficient operations.

4. Improving Courthouse Security, Emergency Preparedness, and Personal Safety
Enhancing the safety of all who visit, conduct business, and work in court facilities.

5. Embracing and Enhancing Technology
Leveraging technology and technological innovations to improve court operations and court performance.

6. Fostering a Strong Workforce
Attracting, developing, and retaining an engaged, productive, and healthy workforce.

Full Strategic Plan

Read the UJS' full strategic plan, including a message from Chief Justice Steven R. Jensen, the six strategic pillars, the goals for each strategic pillar, and a list of Strategic Planning Committee members. 

Read the Full Strategic Plan

This project was supported by grant funding from the State Justice Institute and with assistance from the National Center for State Courts.