N.Y. Eminent Domain Procedure Law § 602

§ 602. Conduct of hearing. At the hearing, a stenographic record shall\nbe made and the respective parties shall present to the court evidence\nto support their positions. The parties need not be represented by an\nattorney nor present expert witnesses, nor shall the rules of evidence\napply. The courts shall adopt rules governing the conduct of hearings\nunder this article.\n