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In recent litigation news from South Dakota, court officials are grappling with a growing backlog of cases as the number of lawsuits filed in the state continues to rise. On March 10, 2026, the South Dakota Judicial Branch released data showing that the courts are struggling to keep up with the increasing number of litigation cases being brought before them.According to the data, the backlog of cases in South Dakota courts has increased by 15% over the past year, with over 2,000 cases currently pending. This backlog has been exacerbated by a surge in the number of civil litigation cases, particularly those related to contract disputes, personal injury claims, and property disputes.Court officials attribute the rise in litigation cases to a variety of factors, including the state's growing population, the increasing complexity of legal issues, and the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on court operations. In response to the backlog, South Dakota courts have implemented measures to streamline their processes and reduce delays, such as increasing the use of virtual hearings and expanding the use of alternative dispute resolution methods.Despite these efforts, many litigants in South Dakota are experiencing significant delays in having their cases heard. Some attorneys and clients have reported waiting months, if not years, for their day in court, leading to frustration and concerns about the fairness and efficiency of the legal system.In an effort to address the backlog, the South Dakota Judicial Branch is working to hire more judges and court staff, expand court facilities, and invest in technology upgrades to improve court operations. However, these measures will take time to implement, and in the meantime, litigants and attorneys in South Dakota may continue to face delays and challenges in navigating the legal system.As the number of litigation cases in South Dakota continues to grow, court officials are urging litigants to be patient and work with their legal counsel to explore alternative dispute resolution options whenever possible. By doing so, they hope to alleviate some of the pressure on the courts and ensure that cases are resolved in a timely and fair manner.