Although respondent failed to demonstrate either a reasonable excuse for his default in appearing for the fact-finding hearing or a meritorious defense (see CPLR 5015[a][1]), Family Court reopened the hearing, in the interest of justice, for the limited purpose of permitting him to offer evidence on the issues of permanent neglect and the child's best interests. Respondent's contention that the court erred in not granting him a trial de novo is unpreserved and in any...
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