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.

March 4, 2026

S09357

Provides "[a]ny respondent in a summary [eviction] proceeding" with a right to counsel and requires continuance if respondent is unrepresented

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March 4, 2026

S2972

Establishes a "right to full legal representation" for tenants facing eviction; creates a division of civil rep. within housing dep't

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March 4, 2026

HB4237

This bill would revoke Okla. Stat. tit. 22 § 983(J)(3), the provision that states that a person may not be incarcerated for the willful failure to pay fees/fines unless they were represented by counsel at the willfulness hearing (or expressly waived their right to counsel). Same effect as HB 3430 in terms of RTC.

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March 3, 2026

B26-0409

At interviews with the child's caretaker, the agency must inform them of their right to counsel under Sec. 16 2304(b)(1)

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March 3, 2026

HB2512

Provides counsel for temporary emergency admissions, as well as petitions to continue to involuntary medical treatment beyond temporary period

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March 3, 2026

HB424

Creates process for assisted outpatient treatment for which a right to counsel attaches for indigent or unrepresented respondents

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March 3, 2026

HB852

Abolishing fees for representation by public defender

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March 2, 2026

SB345

Allowing family member or agent to make request for counsel appointment on behalf of respondent.

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February 27, 2026

SB282

Makes clear that the attorney appointed for an adult respondent is client directed and does not serve in a guardian ad litem role

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February 27, 2026

H8141

Establishes a "right to full legal representation" for tenants facing eviction; creates a division of civil rep. within housing dep't

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February 26, 2026

SB541

Changes right to counsel provisions in §49 4 601 for children and parents in dependency cases.

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February 26, 2026

SB2969

Would appropriate $5 million for access to counsel.

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