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.
Minnesota creates, expands 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.
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.
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.
Cincinnati ordinance expands tenant representation
Reports from Cincinnati flag the low number of represented tenants and high eviction rates, as well as the positive impact of representation.
All about Toledo’s right to counsel for tenants facing eviction
The City of Toledo has enacted legislation to guarantee counsel to low-income tenants facing eviction.
U.S. gets “C-” on access to counsel in housing cases
The latest Human Rights Report Card from the National Homelessness Law Center gives the United States a "C-" on security of housing tenure.
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.
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.
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.
