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.
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.
NV legislature expands appointment of counsel for indigent respondent parents
A 2025 change in the law requires counsel for indigent respondent parents.
All about the eviction RTC in Los Angeles County
Los Angeles County is the second county and 24th jurisdiction overall to enact a right to counsel for tenants facing eviction.
Study finds WA tenant RTC improves health
A new report found that Washington State's tenant right to counsel program improved tenant health in several ways.
Right to counsel: Children at least 12 years of age & Indian children
Colorado added the right to client-directed counsel for older children in 2022 and Indian children in 2025.
MA appellate court: Parents have right to counsel in certain private custody cases
The MA Court of Appeals held birth parents are entitled to counsel in permanent custody cases involving awards of custody to a nonparent.
All about the constitutional right to counsel in Ohio adoption cases
The Supreme Court of Ohio ruled that indigent parents in adoption cases have a right to counsel under the Equal Protection Clause.
