Bill > S00126

This bill provides for free legal representation for homeowners in mortgage foreclosure actions who cannot afford to hire an attorney. Specifically, the bill amends the real property actions and proceedings law to establish a right for financially unable homeowners to be assigned court counsel in foreclosure proceedings. The bill requires that the notice of foreclosure inform homeowners about their potential eligibility for assigned counsel, which will be implemented through existing county law procedures for providing free legal representation. The legislation also updates relevant sections of the county law to include foreclosure actions among the types of legal proceedings where free counsel can be assigned. This change aims to help protect homeowners facing potential home loss by ensuring they have legal representation to understand their rights and navigate the complex foreclosure process, even if they cannot afford to hire a lawyer themselves. The bill will take effect on the first day of January following its passage into law.

Housing and Urban Affairs

https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/bills/2025/S126