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.
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.
All about Washington State’s groundbreaking eviction right to counsel
In April 2021, Washington State became the first state with a statewide right to counsel for tenants facing eviction.
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.
