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.
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.
All about Idaho’s repeal of right to counsel for parents in TPR cases
As a result of a 2025 change, parents no longer have a right to counsel. Rather, appointment is on a case-by-case basis.
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.
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.
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 Columbus Ohio’s new tenant right to counsel
In Dec 2024, the City of Columbus enacted a right to counsel for certain tenants facing eviction.
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.
All about the eviction RTC in Los Angeles County
Los Angeles County is the second county and 24th jurisdiction overall to enact a right to counsel for tenants facing eviction.
