Provides for legal representation for residential lessees and tenants in any removal or eviction proceeding.

This bill (S 1728) requires courts to provide legal representation for residential tenants facing eviction in New Jersey. It ensures tenants in eviction cases under Chapter 18 of New Jersey law can be represented by counsel, with courts allowed to delay proceedings to help tenants secure a lawyer. Courts must appoint a lawyer for tenants earning under 80% of the HUD-defined area median income (after taxes) or those proven unable to pay for legal help. The law applies immediately to all eviction cases filed on or after its effective date.