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.
Members of Congress introduce federal immigration RTC bill
A bill introduced in Congress would provide a right to counsel for all immigrants facing deportation.
WA Supreme Court protects tenant RTC
The Supreme Court of Washington ruled landlords cannot nullify the state's tenant RTC law by seeking an early default.
Missouri enacts right to client-directed counsel for kids 14 years of age and older!
Beginning in 2028, kids 14 and older have the right to client-directed counsel, while children younger than 14 receive an attorney GAL.
Study examines tenant RTC implementation challenges and systemic impacts
A new study in Housing Policy Debate dives into tenant RTC implementation challenges and major systemic benefits delivered by the programs.
Culver City CA considering RTC pilot ordinance
On April 14, 2025, the Culver City CA Council will vote on whether to adopt a 1-year RTC pilot program for tenants at 80% or below of AMI.
Report gives tenant rep highest marks for effectiveness, disparity reduction
The County Health Rankings gave legal representation for renters the highest marks as an evidence-based policy that addresses disparity.
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.
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.
