Wells Fargo Bank, N.A. v DeCesare, 2017 NY Slip Op 01592 (2d Dept. 2017)
“The detailed and specific evidence submitted by DeCesare in support of her motion was sufficient to rebut the allegations contained in the process server’s affidavit of service, thereby shifting the burden of proof to the plaintiff to establish jurisdiction at a hearing by a preponderance of the evidence (see Wells Fargo Bank, NA v Chaplin, 65 AD3d 588, 589; Bankers Trust Co. of Cal. v Tsoukas, 303 AD2d 343, 344). However, because the plaintiff, which was well aware of the existence of the motion, elected not to file any opposition papers, no hearing was required, and the Supreme Court should have granted DeCesare’s unopposed motion and vacated the order of reference (see Walter v Jones, Sledzik, Garneau & Nardone, LLP, 67 AD3d 671).”
The added bonus is that the statute of limitations has probably run and now the Defendant has a house free and clear.
