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
The court must appoint counsel for a minor in an abuse/neglect case, and can appoint counsel for the appeal.
Right to counsel
Minors have a right to counsel in termination of parental rights proceedings.
Right to attorney ad litem
The court must appoint an attorney ad litem for the subject of a guardianship proceeding.
Delaware takes major step towards tenant right to counsel
Delaware's new law entitles tenants to counsel in certain housing matters, but subject to qualifications that fall short of a full right.
Jersey City becomes 21st jurisdiction with tenant right to counsel
Following a push from the North New Jersey DSA, Jersey City has adopted a right to counsel for tenants facing eviction.
Nevada guarantees counsel for Indian children
The court must appoint counsel to represent an Indian child in an abuse/neglect matter where custody is at issue.
Legislature passes discretionary appointment for some kids
In TPR matters brought based on commission of a sex offense resulting in conception of the child, the court may appoint counsel.
Nevada guarantees / strengthens counsel for children in abuse matters
A court must appoint counsel for a child in an abuse/neglect proceeding.
SC enacts law permitting ineffective assistance of counsel challenges to commitment
There is a right to counsel in sexually violent predator commitment matters, and commitment can be challenged based upon ineffective assistance.
CO enacts RTC for parents in due process appeals where parent prevailed below
Parents of students with a disability have the right to counsel in due process appeals where they prevailed below.
Westchester County NY is first county with tenant right to counsel
In May 2023, Westchester County NY became the first county, and 19th jurisdiction, to provide a right to counsel for tenants.
Montana guarantees child-directed counsel for children
A court must appoint counsel for a child in an abuse or termination matter and may assign counsel for appeals.
