Bills in 18 states would provide free lawyers in some civil cases
Lawmakers in 18 states are considering bills that would provide government-funded lawyers for low-income people in some civil cases.
The problem is getting attention as more people buffeted by the recession had to represent themselves in court, the Associated Press reports. Legal-aid groups have to turn away nearly a million people a year because of budgetary constraints, according to the Legal Services Corp.
Bills under consideration would provide free lawyers:
• For people facing involuntary commitment for substance abuse (before legislatures in Florida, New Jersey and Pennsylvania).
• For low-income people in some eviction cases (in Massachusetts), and low-income people facing eviction or foreclosure (New York).
• For low-income people facing termination of their parental rights (before Kentucky and Mississippi lawmakers).
The Associated Press has more details on pending bills in a related story.
Related articles:
ABAJournal.com: :”ABA Brief Supports Right to Counsel for Civil Contempt Defendants Facing Possible Jail Time”
Bar Leader: “Access to Justice: Is Civil Gideon A Piece of the Puzzle?
