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.
Seattle becomes eighth city with eviction right to counsel
A bill enacted by the Seattle City Council provides a right to counsel for all low-income tenants facing eviction.
Mississippi pilots show significant benefit of counsel in child welfare cases
Pilot projects in Mississippi showed that parents benefit significantly when given access to legal counsel.
WA report finds improved outcomes, cost savings w/kid counsel
A new research report finds that children with counsel in child welfare cases have improved permanency outcomes and the State saves money.
Ithaca joins cities with universal tenant representation
Ithaca has passed a resolution supporting the right to counsel for tenants and provided an annual appropriation.
Minneapolis is 12th city to guarantee counsel for tenants
Minneapolis has enacted an ordinance providing a right to counsel for low-income tenants facing eviciton.
Treasury, HUD, AG urge right to counsel for tenants
A combined press release from the Treasury Department, HUD and AG"s Office urged states to use federal funding for right to counsel for tenants.
Texas app ct: dismissal of appointed atty due to alleged non-indigence was improper
A Texas Court of Appeals found error in a trial court's decision to dismiss a parent's appointed counsel on the grounds of non-indgience.
SD Supreme Court impoves child’s right to counsel
The South Dakota Supreme Court has said that attorneys for children must inform courts of a child's wishes in child welfare cases.
Charlottesville to provide counsel for most low-income tenants
The City Council has committed to providing funding such that most low-income tenants can be provided counsel.
Washington Post editorials focus on right to counsel
The Washington Post ran an editorial series on the right to counsel.
Legal Services Corp. President calls for eviction right to counsel
An opinion piece in the Houston Chronicle by the Legal Services Corporation President calls for immediate passage of an eviction right ocounsel.
5th Circuit: appointment of counsel portion of ICWA is constitutional
The Fifth Circuit upheld the portion of the Indian Child Welfare Act relating to appointment of counsel for parents.
