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.
MN Supreme Court expands RTC in civil commitment proceedings
The MN Supreme Court held writ proceedings to enforce rights under the civil commitment statute are covered by the statutory right to counsel.
Alabama appellate court reverses TPRs on multiple occasions due to violation of RTC
The Alabama Court of Appeals reversed a termination of parental rights where a parent's appointed lawyer was denied a continuance to prepare.
Montana Supreme Court twice acts to protect parent right to counsel
The Montana Supreme Court found that a parent had not waived his right to counsel in an adoption case, and strengthened the waiver standard.
All about San Francisco’s DV right to counsel pilot ballot initiative
A 2022 ballot initiative, Proposition D, creates a 1-year pilot to provide a right to counsel for San Francisco victims of domestic violence.
Lawrence Tenants pushing Douglas County (KS) to enact tenant RTC
Lawrence Tenants, a tenant organizing group in Lawrence KS, is pushing the city to consider a right to counsel for tenants facing eviction.
All about Denver’s right to counsel
Denver has enacted an ordinance to guarantee counsel for tenants facing eviction.
All about Westchester County NY tenant right to counsel
In May 2023, Westchester County NY became the first county, and 19th jurisdiction, to provide a right to counsel for tenants.
Birmingham AL funds tenant rep pilot
The City of Birmingham 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.
