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May 10 2018
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October 23, 2015 By
Charles’ Death
After Chase had commenced this lawsuit they ascertained that Charles had died. It should be noted Charles did not respond to any of the documents served upon him by Chase or the Summons and Complaint. That may have been related to the fact that he wasn’t alive!
Although Chase was aware that Charles had died, the moving papers submitted by them did not contain an original death certificate. The court was never made aware as to when Charles died. Judge Rivera advised Chase that when an individual to a lawsuit dies, the court is divested of jurisdiction to continue legal proceedings until an appropriate substitution is made. In addition, any court order rendered after the date of death of a party and before a legal representative is appointed to represent the deceased party would also be void.
Judge Rivera reached the conclusion since Chase had not submitted a death certificate, and they weren’t aware of the date of death, they could not determine if Charles was ever legally a party to this lawsuit. The court further stated if Charles died after the lawsuit was initiated, the action would be stayed under New York State law. In the end, Judge Rivera found that Chase could not have any relief at all until they resolved the issues concerning Charles’ death.
Conclusion
Dying is a defense to foreclosure lawsuit! However, there are less painful defenses which can be established by hiring a foreclosure lawyer upon the initiation of legal proceedings against you.