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.
St. Pete weighs right to counsel for tenants facing eviction
The City of St. Pete is considering providing a right to counsel for tenants facing eviction.
Colorado court reverses denial of counsel in contempt case
The appellate court overturned a contempt order where the respondent was unrepresented and the trial court failed to analyze his ability to pay.
Jersey City becomes 21st jurisdiction with tenant right to counsel
Following a push from the North New Jersey DSA, Jersey City has adopted a right to counsel for tenants facing eviction.
Minnesota creates limited statewide tenant right to counsel
A bill enacted in 2023 provides a right to counsel for public housing tenants threatened with eviction for an alleged breach of lease.
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.
Multnomah County RTC ballot initiative voted down
A proposed ballot initiative that would have establish a right to counsel for Multnomah County tenants facing eviction was voted down.
South Carolina bill would provide right to counsel for tenants
A newly-introduced bill would guarantee counsel for indigent South Carolina tenants facing eviction.
Cincinnati data flags troubling eviction stats, positive representation results
Reports from Cincinnati flag the low number of represented tenants and high eviction rates, as well as the positive impact of representation.
All about Milwaukee’s universal tenant representation program
Milwaukee County has passed a resolution in support of right to counsel and appropriated sufficient funding to make that happen.
Guardianship right to counsel featured in Bloomberg
A recent article from Bloomberg Law looks at flaws in state right to counsel laws, as well as the success of representation when provided.
OH Court of Appeals strengthens parents’ right to counsel in termination of parental rights matters
An Ohio appellate court held that trial courts cannot permit parents' attorneys to withdraw in TPR matters without a thorough waiver analysis.
Illinois introduces eviction right to counsel bills
In 2023, the Illinois legislature introduced a few different bills that would provide for the appointment of counsel in eviction matters.
