May 27, 2021

CPLR 5015[a][1].

In order to have a late answer deemed timely served nunc pro tunc, and avoid the entry of a default judgment, a nonanswering defendant must provide a reasonable excuse for the delay in answering and demonstrate a potentially meritorious defense to the action.

Nationstar Mtge. LLC v. Ahmed, NY Slip Op 03259 (1st Dep't May 20, 2021)

Here is the decision.