Provides that a default judgment against a defendant in a foreclosure action does not need to be vacated in order for the defense of lack of standing or expiration of the statute of limitations to be raised by the defendant.
Clarifies provisions governing when foreclosure actions are deemed abandoned for failure of a plaintiff to timely seek a default judgment; governs when foreclosure actions are deemed terminated for purposes of the savings clause permitting actions to be recommenced following termination of a prior action and be deemed timely; governs the finality of dismissed or discontinued residential foreclosure actions.
Provides that certain communications made without malice regarding an incident of sexual assault, harassment or discrimination shall be deemed privileged; provides that a prevailing defendant in an action brought against such defendant for making a communication that is privileged shall be entitled to attorney's fees and costs for such defense.
Relates to orders of adjournment in contemplation of dismissal by mandating that judges seal certain records of defendants rather than giving judge's discretion for such an action; limits the total period of adjournment to 90 days.
Provides that if a defendant dies when they have a pending appeal, such appeal shall be dismissed and the trial court's judgment shall remain in effect.