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.
Discretionary appointment of attorney ad litem
The court may appoint an attorney GAL for a surrendered newborn in regards to the child placing agency's attempt to terminate parental rights.
Discretionary appointment of counsel
The court may appoint counsel for a minor in a guardianship matter if "the interests of the minor are or may be inadequately represented."
Discretionary appointment of counsel
The court may appoint counsel for indigent individuals in proceedings "arising from the initiation of a criminal action."
Discretionary appointment of counsel
The court may appoint counsel for a child in a truancy matter in any situation deemed "advisable."
Right to guardian ad litem
The court shall appoint an attorney guardian ad litem for children in parentage matters under the Uniform Parentage Act in certain situations.
Discretionary appointment of counsel
The court may appoint counsel for a child in a guardianship proceeding.
Right to counsel
Indigent parents who have appeared are entitled to counsel if one of three factors are met.
Discretionary appointment of counsel
The court may appoint counsel for a child in a child support matter brought under the Ill. Marriage and Dissolution of Marriage Act.
Right to counsel for certain parents
In adoptions, the court shall appoint counsel for parents alleged unfit due to mental impairment, mental illness or an intellectual disability.
Discretionary appointment of counsel
The Code of Civil Procedure provides that a court may, in its discretion, appoint counsel to represent an indigent person.
Discretionary appointment of guardian ad litem
The court may appoint a guardian ad litem for a minor subject to guardianship, though it is not clear whether the GAL must be an attorney.
Inherent authority to appoint GAL for minor litigant
Courts have may appoint a guardian ad litem for a minor involved in litigation under their inherent authority who may or may not be an attorney.
