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.
Right to counsel – Private dependency context
Indigent parents have a right to counsel in private guardianships sought due to allegations of dependency.
Right to counsel
Indigent parents have the right to counsel in permanent guardianship matters.
No right to counsel
The appellate court has declined to find a categorical constitutional right to counsel for parents in neglect matters.
No right to counsel – Voluntary adoptions
The appellate court has held that there is no constitutionally-based right to counsel in voluntary adoption cases.
No right to counsel
The appellate courts have generally found no right to counsel in child custody matters.
Discretionary appointment
The court may appoint counsel for a person bringing a civil action for wrongful conviction against the state.
Study finds NYC tenant RTC program improves birth outcomes
A study found that NYC's tenant right to counsel program reduces adverse birth outcomes such as preterm both and low birth weight.
