Dickerson v. BPP PCV Owners LLC

Background

Gloria D. Dickerson filed her complaint on November 2, 2021. BPP PCV Owners LLC later filed a motion to dismiss. Dickerson requested several extensions of time to respond, explaining that she was seeking legal representation. The court granted extensions on January 21, February 16, and March 28, 2022.

The court’s most recent prior order directed Dickerson to update the court by April 25 about her efforts to obtain counsel. Her April 25 letter did not provide that update. Instead, it offered additional evidence supporting her underlying discrimination claims and stated that she was confident she would have representation soon. Her March 24 letter had similarly stated that she expected to secure counsel in the near future. BPP PCV Owners LLC opposed another extension.

Ruling

The court explained that self-represented litigants receive reasonable protection against accidentally losing important rights because of their lack of legal training, but must still learn and follow procedural rules. In light of Dickerson’s self-represented status, the court granted her one final 30-day extension to secure counsel.

The order states that “By May 27, further extensions to secure counsel will be granted.” Regardless of whether Dickerson obtained counsel, the court gave her until June 17, 2022, to file an opposition to the motion to dismiss. The court did not rule on that motion or decide the discrimination claims.

Additional Information

The court advised Dickerson that she could contact the NYLAG Legal Clinic for Pro Se Litigants in the Southern District of New York for assistance. The order notes that the clinic is independent from the court. It also included the court’s special rules and practices for civil cases involving self-represented parties.