Site navigation

Traveling Term of Court

The Supreme Court travels throughout the state twice a year to hear oral arguments at the University of South Dakota Knudson School of Law and another public institution.

The South Dakota Supreme Court travels throughout the state twice a year to hear oral arguments at the University of South Dakota Knudson School of Law in Vermillion and another public institution. This gives the citizens of South Dakota the opportunity to see and hear for themselves how the Supreme Court operates. Area high school government classes are also invited to attend. 

Justices spend time after oral arguments talking to students about the appellate process and career opportunities as lawyers. Cases are selected to demonstrate the variety of legal arguments that face the court system.

Traveling term of court is part of the Court's strategic priority of building public trust and confidence in the courts through transparency, communication, education and community engagement. 

Augustana University

Hamre Recital Hall, Fryxell Humanities Center
2120 S. Grange Ave, Sioux Falls, S.D.
Wednesday and Thursday, March 18 and 19, 2026

  • Judicial Primer: 8:30 a.m. 
  • Oral Arguments: 9 a.m. 
  • Judicial Q&A: 11:15 a.m.

* Attendees will be screened using a metal detector before entering the room where court arguments will be heard. 

Courtroom Protocol Do's

  • Remove caps/hats before entering the courtroom.
  • Enter the courtroom prior to the commencement of an argument.
  • Stand when the justices enter and leave the courtroom.
  • Listen attentively.
  • Turn cell phones off before entering the courtroom.

Courtroom Protocol Do Not's

  • Bring food, drinks, cameras, or recording equipment into the courtroom.
  • Enter or leave the courtroom during the course of an argument.
  • Chew gum or create any distraction.
  • Engage in any conversation once an argument begins.