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 Idaho’s repeal of right to counsel for parents
As a result of a 2025 change, parents no longer have a right to counsel. Rather, appointment is on a case-by-case basis.
Litigation challenges termination of immigrant child legal rep grants
A federal court refused to reverse the cancellation of federal grants to fund representation of immigrant children in removal proceedings.
Indiana Supreme Court flags child’s need for counsel in CHINS cases
The Indiana Supreme Court expressed concern about the child's need for counsel in Child in Need of Services (CHINS) cases.
Arizona enacts bill designed to increase quality of representation
A 2025 law creates the Child and Family Representation program, aimed at enhancing representation for parents and kids.
Akron creates 3-year tenant representation pilot
The City of Akron plans to launch a 3-year tenant representation pilot program in Sept 2025 using $750,000 of ARPA funding.
Governor vetoes bill related to parent RTC
A bill would have permitted parents entitled to appointed counsel in abuse/neglect cases to select their own attorney.
Discretionary appointment of attorney ad litem – Estate administration
If service by publication occurs, the court may appoint an attorney ad litem to represent the distributees of the deceased person's estate.
Florida enacts right to counsel for kids in truancy cases
As of 2025, indigent children in Florida have the right to counsel in truancy matters, called "Child in Need of Services" cases.
