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.
UGCOPA adds discretionary appointment of counsel for parents
A 2026 law permits the court to appoint counsel for objecting parents in guardianship / conservatorship establishment cases.
Enactment of UGCOPA weakens appointment of counsel for children
2026 changes to the law somewhat narrow the appointment of counsel in guardianship establishment matters.
Enacted UGCOPA Act clarifies guardianship counsel is client-directed, but weakens protections in conservatorships
A 2026 law guarantees adults client-directed counsel in guardianship establishment cases but discretionary appointment in conservatorships.
Bill that would’ve rolled back child’s right to counsel dies
SB 1234 would have repealed the child's RTC, replacing it with an attorney ad litem and discretionary appointment of counsel.
The right to counsel in immigration cases.
The extensive enforcement actions of Homeland Security and ICE have raised many right to counsel questions, and not just for immigration cases.
