Major South Dakota courts that have kept records of genealogical value were established in 1889, when South Dakota became a state.

Justices of the peace have countywide jurisdiction over minor civil and criminal cases.

Municipal courts have citywide jurisdiction over minor civil and criminal cases.

District county courts have countywide jurisdiction over records of misdemeanors, minor civil cases, probates, guardianship, and juvenile matters.

Circuit courts have countywide jurisdiction over felonies, divorces, equity matters, misdemeanors, and some appeals.

The Supreme Court is the statewide appellate court.

The Family History Library does not have copies of court records for South Dakota. They are available at the clerk's office in the various county courthouses.

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