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.
Maryland “Know Before They Knock” Family Right to Notice Act dies
A 2025 bill would have provided parents with notice of their rights upon initial contact with social services or law enforcement.
North Dakota creates re-establishment of parental rights process and associated right to counsel
Indigent parent petitioners are entitled to counsel as are children regardless of the child's income.
RAND report: LSC tenant rep keeps tenant housed, saves money
A report by RAND found that the Legal Services Corporation helps 75k households keep their housing and saves $2k per avoided move.
Santa Monica expands tenant representation program
Santa Monica has taken steps to move towards a right to counsel in eviction cases.
All about the eviction RTC in Los Angeles County
Los Angeles County is the second county and 24th jurisdiction overall to enact a right to counsel for tenants facing eviction.
All about Cleveland’s eviction right to counsel
A bill guarantees counsel to Cleveland families with children facing eviction who are at or below 100% of the federal poverty level.
Missouri parent/child rep program plagued with funding, atty availability problems
Missouri's program for representing children and parents has faced funding problems and the fact that there is no guarantee of counsel.
Springfield MO weighing tenant RTC ordinance
An ordinance has been introduced in Springfield MO that would provide a RTC for tenants facing eviction.
LDF reports on forced tenant moves due to rent increases, notes RTC connection to rent regulation
The Legal Defense Fund reported on how rent increases are increasing tenant pressure to move, and how rent regulation is connected to RTC.
Boston pilot launched for rep of tenants with school-age children
In 2025, the Mayor of Boston announced $500,000 in funding to expand representation for tenants with school-age children.
All about Philadelphia’s eviction right to counsel
The Philadelphia City Council has enacted a right to counsel for tenants.
MO court: those subject to guardianship have right to attorney to undo it
A Missouri Court of Appeals found that those subject to guardianship have the right to be represented by counsel when seeking to terminate it.
