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.
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.
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.
New resource addresses preemption in the RTC context
A new report addresses preemption in the RTC context.
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.
Study finds WA tenant RTC improves health
A new report found that Washington State's tenant right to counsel program improved tenant health in several ways.
Right to counsel: Children at least 12 years of age & Indian children
Colorado added the right to client-directed counsel for older children in 2022 and Indian children in 2025.
MA appellate court: Parents have right to counsel in certain private custody cases
The MA Court of Appeals held birth parents are entitled to counsel in permanent custody cases involving awards of custody to a nonparent.
All about the constitutional right to counsel in Ohio adoption cases
The Supreme Court of Ohio ruled that indigent parents in adoption cases have a right to counsel under the Equal Protection Clause.
All about the tenant RTC campaign in Phoenix
A coalition of advocates and government stakeholders have launched an effort to enact a right to counsel for tenants facing eviction.
Maryland extends appropriations for the eviction right to counsel through 2028
In May 2025, Maryland enacted SB 154, extending funding for the eviction right to counsel and modifying task force provisions.
