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.
HB5638
Provides that a guardian ad litem must either be an attorney licensed in Illinois to practice law; or a person who holds at a minimum a bachelor's degree in psychology, psychiatry, social work, education, or any other relevant child related discipline involving determining a child's best interests.
All about Baltimore’s tenant RTC
The City of Baltimore has enacted a bill to provide all low-income tenants facing eviction with counsel .
NY high court denies counsel in child abuse/neglect registry case
The Court found no constitutional right to counsel for a parent challenging their placement on the child abuse registry.
Dayton launches tenant rep pilot
The City of Dayton OH has provided funding to run a tenant representation pilot project.
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.
Delaware finally enacts right to counsel for parents
A 2024 change in the law provides indigent parents with counsel at all stages of abuse cases, including termination and reinstatement matters.
U.S. ranked 107th out of 142 countries on access to civil justice
The 2024 World Justice Project's Rule of Law Index ranked the U.S. 107th out of 142 countries in the world on access to civil justice.
Report finds counsel infrequently appointed in guardianship cases despite RTC
A report by Disability Rights Maine found 75% of guardianship respondents lacked counsel despite a state right to counsel law.
