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.
Cross-filed bills that would’ve appropriated $5 million for access to counsel die
Two 2026 bills aimed to increase access to counsel for tenants facing eviction.
Santa Monica expands tenant representation program
Santa Monica has taken steps to move towards a right to counsel in eviction cases.
Unaccompanied minors bill dies in Emerging Issues Committee
AS 2026 bill, HB 3159, would have provided a right to counsel to unaccompanied minors in immigration-related matters.
Oklahoma legislature creates right to counsel for capacity determinations
Unrepresented persons subject to a petition to determine their health care decision making capacity have the right to counsel.
Boston pilot launched for rep of tenants with school-age children
In 2025, the Mayor of Boston announced $500,000 in funding to expand representation for tenants with school-age children.
Maine strengthens RTC in guardianship cases
There is a right to counsel for adults upon request or if the adult contests, at least in plenary guardianship and conservatorship matters.
Oklahoma abolishes incarceration as consequence of fees / fines nonpayment
HB 4237 (2026) amended the law such that incarceration and drivers license suspension are no longer possible sanctions for nonpayment.
Massachusetts considers tenant right to counsel
Bills have been filed to create a statewide right to counsel in eviction cases, and a statewide coalition has been launched to support them.
Policy brief cites tenant RTC as crucial to good parent/child outcomes
A policy brief from an org focusing on parent/child health identified tenant RTC as an impactful policy.
