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.
Cincinnati ordinance expands tenant representation
Reports from Cincinnati flag the low number of represented tenants and high eviction rates, as well as the positive impact of representation.
Discretionary appointment of attorney ad litem
The court may appoint an attorney ad litem for children in certain proceedings regarding parenting time, custody, or visitation.
Forfeiture right to counsel bills have died
Cross-filed bills would have provided a right to counsel for certain defendants in civil asset forfeiture matters.
Right to attorney ad litem
There is a right to an attorney in guardianship proceedings, but the attorney serves in an ad litem capacity.
Bills seeking to reinstate parental notification of abortion requirement die
The Illinois House introduced six bills in the 2023-24 session to require minors to notify their parents of their intent to seek an abortion.
Right to guardian ad litem
An adult subject of protective services proceeding has the right to a GAL, but it is unclear whether GAL must be an attorney.
Right to Counsel
Indigent parents and Indian custodians have the right to counsel in termination proceedings concerning Indian children.
All about Toledo’s right to counsel for tenants facing eviction
The City of Toledo has enacted legislation to guarantee counsel to low-income tenants facing eviction.
Legislature introduces another forfeiture reform bill
Kansas has introduced bills in successive years that would have abolished pre-conviction forfeiture and provided a right to counsel.
Eviction right to counsel bill dies in Committee
The Oklahoma bill would have provided eligible tenants with counsel in evictions, with program rollout prioritizing highly impacted counties.
All about the children’s right to counsel in PA TPR cases
Children have a right to client-directed counsel in termination of parental rights cases, although the child's GAL can sometimes play this role.
Arbitrator may appoint attorney for child
Arbitrator of family law matter may appoint an attorney, GAL, or other representative for a child.
