NYCHA might begin by offering to settle the case and asking you to sign a stipulation. If you believe NYCHA is wrong for terminating your tenancy, or if you believe you can fix whatever is causing the problem, be sure to point this out. Think about the settlement that is offered. If you are not sure what to do, you can ask to adjourn the hearing so that you can think about the offer or talk to an attorney.
A stipulation is a binding legal agreement. It might require you to be on probation for a number of years. During probation you cannot break any NYCHA rules. It might require you to permanently exclude a member of your household. This means that the excluded person can never visit or live in the apartment again. It might require you to allow NYCHA employees to come into your apartment for inspections. If you violate the terms of the stipulation, you will have to return to 803 Atlantic Avenue for a new hearing.
If you do not agree to a stipulation, there will be a hearing with a Hearing Officer (the judge). If you could not agree to a stipulation, you can ask for an adjournment for a later date so that you can prepare. At the hearing, NYCHA’s attorney will present their evidence and witnesses, and then you will have your turn to defend yourself with your own evidence and witnesses. You will also be allowed to cross-examine NYCHA’s witnesses. At the end of the hearing, you or your representative will be allowed to make a statement about why your tenancy should not be terminated. You can explain any circumstances or details about your family that would make a termination of tenancy especially burdensome such as medical issues, disabilities, location of schools or doctors.
Do not start a hearing without being well prepared to respond to the charges against you and to present your own evidence and witnesses.