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.
All about Delaware’s eviction defense program
Delaware's new law entitles tenants to counsel in certain housing matters, but subject to qualifications that fall short of a full right.
All about New Orleans’ tenant right to counsel
In May 2022, the New Orleans City Council enacted an ordinance to provide a right to counsel for all tenants facing eviction.
PA court reverses denial of counsel for kids, rejects post-hoc justification
An appellate court reversed a termination of parental rights where the trial court did not properly handle the children's right to counsel.
AZ enacts fee reform bill, eliminating fees
A 2026 bill prohibited certain fees from being charged, including for representation by the public defender.
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
Hawaii bill aims to ensure immigrants have access to their retained counsel
A 2026 bill enhances due process protections for individuals in immigration interviews.
Illinois enacts discretionary appointment for certain drivers license suspension defendants
The public defender may represent defendants in related drivers license suspension matters.
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.
All about Nashville’s tenant RTC
A report on Nashville's tenant rep pilot found it helped 93% of tenants avoid eviction / involuntary move while saving millions of dollars.
Colorado is first state to enact broad RTC in forfeiture cases
Requires appointment of counsel upon request for forfeiture defendant.
Bill to create pre-petition right to counsel for parents dies in Committee
A 2026 bill would have provided adult subjects of CPS investigations with counsel before the filing of a court case.
