Know your rights ·

I received eviction papers

General information for New Jersey, New York and Washington, DC · Last updated

Quick answer

Identify whether you have a preliminary notice, filed court case, judgment, or enforcement notice.

Do now

Calendar hearing and response requirements. Gather lease, rent ledger, receipts, notices, repair records, and assistance applications. Contact a tenant lawyer or legal-aid service promptly and ask about local representation programs.

Watch for

An assistance application or landlord conversation does not necessarily stop the court case. Do not assume a notice means you must leave immediately or that ignoring it is safe.

Official sources

NJ DCA — Truth in Renting, NY Attorney General — Residential Tenants’ Rights Guide, DC OTA — Tenant Bill of Rights, September 25, 2026, NJ Courts — Information for Residential Tenants.

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