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.
Report gives tenant rep highest marks for effectiveness, disparity reduction
The County Health Rankings gave legal representation for renters the highest marks as an evidence-based policy that addresses disparity.
Maryland “Know Before They Knock” Family Right to Notice Act dies
A 2025 bill would have provided parents with notice of their rights upon initial contact with social services or law enforcement.
Kansas enacts qualified right to counsel for kids in guardianships
The court must appoint counsel for minors 12 years of age or older who request an attorney and in other limited circumstances.
Kansas provides discretionary appointment for parents in guardianships
The court may appoint counsel in plenary establishment matters if the court determines the parent needs representation.
Right to counsel
Respondents have a right to counsel in guardianship and conservatorship establishment and temporary substitute matters.
North Dakota creates re-establishment of parental rights process and associated right to counsel
Indigent parent petitioners are entitled to counsel as are children regardless of the child's income.
RAND report: LSC tenant rep keeps tenant housed, saves money
A report by RAND found that the Legal Services Corporation helps 75k households keep their housing and saves $2k per avoided move.
Forfeiture bill dies
The bill would have provided a right to counsel to forfeiture defendants represented by appointed counsel in a related criminal matter.
