the foreclosure process begins with a default hearing. most clerks or courts allow for an extention at the first hearing. the person should show up and request one advising that they are seeking an attorney.

after the extension, negotiate, mitigate or file bankruptcy. or, just come to the realization that an unpaid mortgage gives the bank the right to take it back.

time will not help if you have no intention of paying the debt. it will only delay it.

Ask them for the note.

The actual document saying they own your mortgage.

Probably they don't have it so they can't foreclose on you legally.