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.
AZ enacts fee reform bill, eliminating fees
A 2026 bill prohibited certain fees from being charged, including for representation by the public defender.
Right to counsel for youth in care who are subject to placement or treatment out of state
Children in care with certain needs have a right to counsel in child neglect/termination proceedings.
CA funds access to counsel pilot, includes immigration
CA has enacted SB111 to fund access to counsel pilot including, not limited to, immigration legal services
Illinois enacts discretionary appointment for certain drivers license suspension defendants
The public defender may represent defendants in related drivers license suspension matters.
Hawaii bill aims to ensure immigrants have access to their retained counsel
A 2026 bill enhances due process protections for individuals in immigration interviews.
All about Cleveland’s eviction right to counsel
A 2019 ordinance guarantees counsel to Cleveland families with children facing eviction who are at or below 100% of the federal poverty level.
All about Vermont’s tenant rep pilot
Would extend existing tenant rep pilot program from 2 counties to whole state and carry forward $1 million appropriation until fully expended.
