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.
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.
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.
Timothy Barnaud Appointed Magistrate Judge in Fourth Circuit
The Unified Judicial System is pleased to announce that the South Dakota Supreme Court has appointed Timothy Barnaud as a magistrate judge for the Fourth Judicial Circuit.
UJS Proposes Merger of Fourth and Seventh Judicial Circuits
The South Dakota Unified Judicial System (UJS) State Court Administrator’s Office has proposed to the South Dakota Supreme Court consideration of a merger of the administrative structures of the Fourth Judicial Circuit and Seventh Judicial Circuit.
Treatment Court Graduation to be Held in Sturgis on May 19
Northern Hills Drug Court and Fourth Circuit DUI Court will hold a graduation ceremony on Tuesday, May 19, 2026, at 2 p.m. MDT at the Sturgis Community Center Theater at 1401 Lazelle St., Sturgis.
Chief Justice Steven R. Jensen Appoints Judge Michelle K. Comer as Presiding Judge of Fourth Judicial Circuit
South Dakota Supreme Court Chief Justice Steven R. Jensen has appointed the Honorable Michelle K. Comer as presiding judge for the Fourth Judicial Circuit.
South Dakota Treatment Courts Hosting Special Events to Celebrate 2026 National Treatment Court Month
May is National Treatment Court Month and the perfect time to share the many ways treatment courts are making a positive impact on their communities.
Governor Rhoden Appoints Magistrate Judge Callahan as Fourth Circuit Judge
Gov. Larry Rhoden announced the appointment of Magistrate Judge Chad Callahan as a circuit judge in the Fourth Judicial Circuit, a vacancy created by the retirement of Judge Mike Day.