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.
Birmingham AL funds tenant rep pilot
The City of Montgomery Alabama has put $150k towards a pilot to expand tenant rep for public housing tenants.
All about litigation over federal funding for rep of immigrants w/disabilities
Advocates have brought suit challenging the elimination of funding for representation immigrants with mental disabilities facing deportation.
Sen. Booker, Reps. Lee and McIver introduce federal bills to support tenant RTC
Federal legislation would provide substantial funding for localities that enact tenant RTC laws.
Study finds presence of court observers increases chances of adjournment for defendant to find an attorney
A study found immigration judges who knew they were being observed were more likely to grant a continuance for defendants to find an attorney.
FL trial court upholds child’s right to hire attorney
Children seeking adoption have the right to hire an attorney, a Florida trial court has ruled.
All about Idaho’s repeal of right to counsel for parents
As a result of a 2025 change, parents no longer have a right to counsel. Rather, appointment is on a case-by-case basis.
Litigation challenges termination of immigrant child legal rep grants
A federal court refused to reverse the cancellation of federal grants to fund representation of immigrant children in removal proceedings.
Indiana Supreme Court flags child’s need for counsel in CHINS cases
The Indiana Supreme Court expressed concern about the child's need for counsel in Child in Need of Services (CHINS) cases.
All about Nebraska’s right to counsel for certain public housing tenants
In 2024, Nebraska enacted a right to appointed counsel for public housing residents in certain cities for administrative hearings & evictions.
Arizona enacts bill designed to increase quality of representation
A 2025 law creates the Child and Family Representation program, aimed at enhancing representation for parents and kids.
Akron creates 3-year tenant representation pilot
The City of Akron plans to launch a 3-year tenant representation pilot program in Sept 2025 using $750,000 of ARPA funding.
NV legislature expands appointment of counsel for indigent respondent parents
A 2025 change in the law requires counsel for indigent respondent parents.
