Civil RTC News
This page lists all of the most recent developments on civil right to counsel across the country. These could be newly created rights to counsel, significant publications, public events, advocacy efforts, or other things that don’t fit into a neat category.
Westchester County NY is first county with tenant right to counsel
In May 2023, Westchester County NY became the first county, and 19th jurisdiction, to provide a right to counsel for tenants.
Montana guarantees child-directed counsel for children
A court must appoint counsel for a child in an abuse or termination matter and may assign counsel for appeals.
Right to attorney ad litem for certain payees
The court must appoint an attorney GAL for payees who are minors or appear to "suffer from a mental or cognitive impairment."
Oklahoma strengthens rights for debtors in fees and fines matters
Indigent civil contempt respondents have a right to counsel as do defendants at "willfulness" hearings.
Georgia expands right to counsel to children in deprivation cases who are receiving extended care youth services
Kids have a right to their own counsel due to a 2013 amendment. In 2023, the RTC was extended to kids receiving extended care youth services.
Right to counsel – Extreme risk protection orders
Extreme risk protection order respondents may have the right to counsel under certain circumstances.
Mississippi expands child right to counsel in child welfare cases
Minors in abuse and terminations proceedings have the right to an attorney and a GAL, who may be the same person.
NM provides parents with counsel prior to the signing of a voluntary placement agreement
A parent or guardian has the right to counsel before signing, and for the duration of, a voluntary placement agreement.
New Mexico provides child with counsel for matters related to voluntary placement agreements
When a child's parent or guardian signs a voluntary placement agreement, the child is entitled to an attorney ad litem.
Discretionary appointment of attorney ad litem
The court may appoint an attorney ad litem for children in certain proceedings regarding parenting time, custody, or visitation.
Forfeiture right to counsel bills have died
Cross-filed bills would have provided a right to counsel for certain defendants in civil asset forfeiture matters.
Right to attorney ad litem
There is a right to an attorney in guardianship proceedings, but the attorney serves in an ad litem capacity.
