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.
Members of Congress introduce federal immigration RTC bill
A bill introduced in Congress would provide a right to counsel for all immigrants facing deportation.
Missouri enacts right to client-directed counsel for kids 14 years of age and older!
Beginning in 2028, kids 14 and older have the right to client-directed counsel, while children younger than 14 receive an attorney GAL.
Study examines tenant RTC implementation challenges and systemic impacts
A new study in Housing Policy Debate dives into tenant RTC implementation challenges and major systemic benefits delivered by the programs.
Culver City CA considering RTC pilot ordinance
On April 14, 2025, the Culver City CA Council will vote on whether to adopt a 1-year RTC pilot program for tenants at 80% or below of AMI.
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.
All about the eviction RTC in the City of Los Angeles
The City of Los Angeles enacted a right to counsel for tenants facing eviction, becoming the 26th jurisdiction to enact such a law.
All about Detroit’s tenant right to counsel
In May 2022, Detroit became the latest city to enact a right to counsel for tenants facing eviction.
Report: Nashville tenant rep pilot meets tenant goals, saves money
A report on Nashville's tenant rep pilot found it helped 93% of tenants avoid eviction / involuntary move while saving millions of dollars.
Lawrence (KS) Tenants pushing city to explore tenant RTC
Lawrence Tenants, a tenant organizing group in Lawrence KS, is pushing the city to consider a right to counsel for tenants facing eviction.
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: 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.
