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.
PRESS RELEASE
For Immediate Release: Sept. 1, 2026
Contact: Alisa Bousa, Public Information Officer, via email or 605.773.2031
Unified Judicial System Wants to Hear from Court Users
PIERRE, S.D.—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.
UJS is conducting the 2026 Court User Survey to collect anonymous feedback from court users to improve court services. Participation is voluntary, anonymous, and will not affect any court case. Two surveys are available during the month of September.
- The first survey is available in English and Spanish through QR codes displayed on flyers at court locations across the state where court users are likely to see them. The survey website links are also included on the flyer for those who do not have a cell phone or prefer not to scan a QR code.
- A second online survey is available to people who use the UJS website.
“The Unified Judicial System wants to hear from the public about how we are doing as a court system so we can best serve our communities,” said State Court Administrator Greg Sattizahn. “Anyone who has had any experiences in our courts can participate in this survey. We have made it very easy and safe to let us know your thoughts. All survey responses are anonymous, and it takes just a minute or two to complete.”
The surveys are open to all court users including defendants, witnesses, attorneys, law enforcement, service providers, individuals attending court with someone else, and those present for meetings or other court business. Areas of inquiry include purpose of courthouse or website visit, ability to complete business or find what you needed, experience satisfaction, and any challenges encountered.
The 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. Learn more about UJS.
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About South Dakota Courts: The Unified Judicial System (UJS) consists of the Supreme Court, Circuit Courts and State Court Administrator’s Office. The Supreme Court is the state’s highest court and final decision maker on South Dakota law. The Circuit Courts are the state’s trial courts where criminal proceedings and civil litigation are handled. The State Court Administrator’s Office provides centralized administrative assistance and support services for the South Dakota judiciary. Learn more about UJS.