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.
Trial court abused its discretion in failing to appoint counsel for parent
A Louisiana appellate court reversed an adoption because the trial court failed to determine if the birth parent was entitled to counsel.
WA report finds improved outcomes, cost savings w/kid counsel
A new research report finds that children with counsel in child welfare cases have improved permanency outcomes and the State saves money.
Ithaca joins cities with universal tenant representation
Ithaca has passed a resolution supporting the right to counsel for tenants and provided an annual appropriation.
Minneapolis is 12th city to guarantee counsel for tenants
Minneapolis has enacted an ordinance providing a right to counsel for low-income tenants facing eviciton.
Treasury, HUD, AG urge right to counsel for tenants
A combined press release from the Treasury Department, HUD and AG"s Office urged states to use federal funding for right to counsel for tenants.
Texas app ct: dismissal of appointed atty due to alleged non-indigence was improper
A Texas Court of Appeals found error in a trial court's decision to dismiss a parent's appointed counsel on the grounds of non-indgience.
SD Supreme Court impoves child’s right to counsel
The South Dakota Supreme Court has said that attorneys for children must inform courts of a child's wishes in child welfare cases.
Charlottesville to provide counsel for most low-income tenants
The City Council has committed to providing funding such that most low-income tenants can be provided counsel.
Washington Post editorials focus on right to counsel
The Washington Post ran an editorial series on the right to counsel.
New polling data shows strong support for eviction right to counsel
Data for Progress has released new polling data showing the American public strongly supports a right to counsel for tenants facing eviction.
New Jersey joins ranks of states considering tenant right to counsel
A bill has been filed that would provide a statewide right to counsel for indigent tenants facing eviction.
CA Supreme Court: parents have right to effective assistance of counsel on appeal
The Supreme Court of California ruled parents can challenge a denial of a termination of parental rights appeal that was filed late.
