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.
Policy brief makes case for universal representation in immigration
A policy brief by the Vera Institute shares compelling statistics justifying the creation of a universal representation program for immigrants.
Webinar series featured organizing around eviction right to counsel
A webinar series hosted by the NCCRC and the Right to Counsel Coalition of NYC featured organizing efforts around right to counsel.
Indiana considering tenant right to counsel for Marion County
A pending bill would guarantee counsel for tenants facing eviction in Marion County Small Claims Court.
Maryland AG Task Force recommends RTC for evictions
The Maryand Attorney General's Access to Justice Task Force released a report recommending a right to counsel for tenants facing eviction.
Federal bills would fund state/local attorneys for tenants
Bills introduced in the House and Senate would provide federal funding for cities and state to provide counsel for tenants facing eviction.
MD court: Threat of incarceration makes right to counsel attach
A Maryland appellate court held that statutory law entitles civil contempt defendants to counsel when they are threatened with incarceration.
All about California’s Sargent Shriver Civil Counsel projects
In 2009, California enacted the Shriver Civil Counsel Act to create right to counsel pilots, and in 2016 they were made permanent projects.
Maryland AG creates access to justice task force, flags right to counsel
Maryland Attorney General Brian Frosh announced the creation of an access to justice task force and that right to counsel would be considered.
Report finds racial disparity in evictions, calls for right to counsel
A report finds the majority of MA evictions suspended during COVID-19 are in communities of color, and calls for a right to counsel.
About the right to counsel in quarantine/isolation cases
The NCCRC status map now includes full information about the right to counsel when subject to quarantine or isolation.
PA appellate court: right to counsel attaches where incarceration is threatened
A PA appellate court broadly held that the right to counsel attaches when incarceration is threatened in civil matters.
DC court extends child’s right to counsel
The D.C. Court of Appeals held delinquent children have a right to counsel in proceedings run by the Dept' of Youth Rehabilitation Services.
