When you are asked to go to court for an eviction proceeding, the first time you go to court you can ask for a 14-day Adjournment of Hearing. An adjournment is a postponement. During your first court appearance, the judge should grant this request and will postpone any action on your case for 14 days.

Note that you must appear in court and ask for this adjournment. Without being present and asking the judge, you will not get this 14 day stay. This time can be used to find a lawyer to help you or build your case yourself. If your request is not granted, you may qualify for free legal assistance by contacting a legal aid organization near you. Click here to find legal help in your area: https://tenanthelpny.org/legalhelp/