On February 23, 2026, South Dakota civil practice news reported a significant increase in civil cases as the state's economy continues to rebound from the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic. With businesses reopening and individuals returning to work, the court system is bracing for a surge in litigation related to contract disputes, employment issues, and other civil matters.According to Chief Justice Stephen Jensen of the South Dakota Supreme Court, the spike in civil cases is expected to put a strain on the state's judicial system. "We are preparing for a substantial increase in caseloads as more and more businesses and individuals seek legal remedies for various issues arising from the pandemic," said Justice Jensen.To accommodate the anticipated influx of cases, the South Dakota court system has implemented several measures to streamline the litigation process. This includes expanding virtual court proceedings, hiring additional staff to assist with case management, and increasing the number of judges available to hear civil cases.In addition to the logistical challenges posed by the rise in civil cases, the court system is also facing a backlog of cases from the pandemic-related closures. In order to address this backlog, the South Dakota Supreme Court has prioritized certain types of cases and set specific timelines for their resolution.Despite these challenges, Chief Justice Jensen expressed confidence in the ability of the South Dakota court system to address the increased caseload. "We are committed to ensuring that all parties have access to justice and that cases are resolved in a timely manner," he said.As the state's economy continues to rebound, the South Dakota court system is gearing up for what is expected to be a busy period for civil litigation. With a combination of innovative solutions and dedicated staff, the judiciary is poised to meet the challenges ahead and deliver justice for all parties involved in civil cases.