Turner v. Rogers

Summary

The Court held that the Due Process Clause does not automatically require appointed counsel for indigent noncustodial parents facing incarceration in civil contempt hearings for child support nonpayment, though alternative safeguards are required. Turner’s sentence was vacated because he lacked counsel and alternative procedural protections, such as clear notice and findings on ability to pay. Justice Thomas, dissenting, argued the Court should not reach alternative procedural safeguards raised only by an amicus brief.