ST. ANN'S APARTMENTS LLC v. Pickett

In this holdover proceeding, the landlord sought possession after the tenant of record, the respondent's cousin, passed away, alleging the respondent's license expired. The tenant asserted succession rights as a non-traditional family member, arguing emotional and financial commitment and interdependence. Despite limited documentary evidence and contrary testimony from the landlord's superintendent, the court found the tenant's and the deceased's brother's testimony credible. The evidence demonstrated the tenant resided in the apartment as a primary residence for over two years and provided extensive care and support to the ailing tenant of record. The court granted succession, dismissing the proceeding and ordering the landlord to offer the tenant a renewal lease for the rent-stabilized apartment.