Court hears proposal to create Commission on Access to the Courts to coordinate services for self‑represented litigants

The court heard a proposal to adopt a new rule creating a Commission on Access to the Courts to coordinate services for people who may not be able to afford attorneys.

A speaker who identified several existing efforts by the Unified Judicial System (UJS), the State Bar, law‑school clinical programs and legal service organizations urged the court to approve an 11‑member commission to oversee and coordinate those activities. The presenter said South Dakota is one of the few states without such an umbrella entity and argued a commission could create a strategic plan, reduce duplication and focus resources where they are needed on the civil side of the courts.

On the record the court asked if anyone wished to speak in support or opposition; none did. The court said it would take the rule under consideration. No vote or formal adoption occurred at the hearing.