NYC Housing Court Glossary
Default Judgment
Plain EnglishYou lost because you didn't show up
Legal Definition
If you fail to appear in court on your court date, the judge can rule against you automatically. Always attend your court date — even if you're not ready, showing up prevents a default.
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Practical Tip
This feels final, but it isn't. File a motion to vacate as soon as possible — courts regularly reverse defaults when tenants have a good reason and a real defense.
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