claim for possession has gone to a hearing

my claim for possession on basis of non-payment of rent has gone to a hearing (December). The tenant is arguing that I verbally agreed that she could pay half-rent and that it could be paid at her convenience. This is not true.

In the past I have urged her to contact housing authorities for help but now it appears there are passport issues, which I had not been aware of,so she says she cannot claim help.

What is the significance of the case going to a hearing? Should I get legal representation? I am concerned that I may be stuck with a tenant who is accumulating a debt that will never be paid.

Thank you