Do judges usually grant continuance?

Asked by: Danika Ryan  |  Last update: March 3, 2025
Score: 4.6/5 (48 votes)

Judges generally do not grant continuances freely unless proceeding to trial would violate the defendant's rights. They have discretion to deny a continuance unless the law in their state requires a continuance to be granted in a certain situation.

Why would a judge deny a continuance?

Judge might deny it because it's becoming an older case and needs to be moved along, especially as it nears 5 years. Judge might want an explanation if trial has been set for many months and you show up weeks before asking to continue the trial without explaining.

What are good reasons to ask for a continuance?

What are considered to be acceptable reason for a continuance
  • 1. Not having an attorney or not having had the time to look for an attorney.
  • 2. Illness of party or attorney.
  • 3. Attorney having an unexpected event occur in another case that would cause them to be unable to attend.
  • 4. Family emergency.
  • 5.

Under what circumstances will a judge grant a motion?

How do I get the judge to grant my motion? A judge will make his/her decision on a motion based on the law that applies, the facts of the situation, and the arguments made by the parties for, and against, the motion.

What constitutes a good cause for continuance?

(2) For purposes of this section, "good cause" includes, but is not limited to, those cases involving murder, as defined in subdivision (a) of Section 187, allegations that stalking, as defined in Section 646.9, a violation of one or more of the sections specified in subdivision (a) of Section 11165.1 or Section ...

Motion For Continuance

37 related questions found

What are two reasons for granting a trial continuance?

Illness, death or withdrawal of counsel in civil cases are also reasons for granting a continuance.
  • Absence of witness or evidence.
  • Absence or incapacity of counsel.
  • Absence of party.
  • Surprise.
  • Other grounds.

How many times can a continuance be granted?

Typically, there's no limit on the number of continuances that a defendant can request. That said, a judge won't look favorably on repeated requests, especially if they appear to be delay tactics. Repeated requests, made without good cause, will be denied. (The judge could also reprimand the lawyer.)

How do I stop a motion for continuance?

You can oppose the motion for continuance by filing a written response. Be aware, however, that the judge has discretion whether to grant the motion, meaning he can do so without a formal hearing and it is unlikely another judge would reverse his decision.

When should you expect a court to grant a motion for a more definite statement?

“[A] motion for a more definite statement should not be granted unless the defendant literally cannot frame a responsive pleading.” Bureerong, 922 F. Supp. at 1461.

Can a judge refuse to hear a motion?

The judge, as the central figure, listens to the arguments, asks questions, and ultimately decides whether to grant or deny the motion.

Do both parties have to agree to a continuance?

Even if the other party does not agree, you may still contact the court to request a continuance of the hearing date. With the current public health crisis, judges may be more sensitive to health concerns and more lenient in granting continuances.

What is a stipulation for continuance?

The stipulation MUST BE SUPPORTED by facts in the stipulation that clearly explains the reasons for requesting a continuance of the hearing and/or extension of filing deadlines, and why the the timeline for a continuance/extension is appropriate under the circumstances.

Why would a lawyer file for a continuance?

Perhaps the most common reason for a continuance is when one side did not have enough time to investigate the case and analyze the evidence. Many defense attorneys, especially public defenders, can move only so quickly because they are representing many clients.

Why do lawyers drag out cases?

It's frustrating when a legal case takes a long time to settle, but there are many reasons why your lawyer might need more time. They could be busy collecting evidence, dealing with complicated legal issues, or negotiating with the other side. Sometimes, waiting a bit longer can even result in a better outcome for you.

How do you know if your case will be dismissed?

5 Telling Signs Your Criminal Case Will Be Dismissed
  • Sign #1: Procedural Errors Were Made By Police or Prosecutors. ...
  • Sign #2: The Prosecution's Evidence is Weak. ...
  • Sign #3: There are Statute of Limitations Issues. ...
  • Sign #4: Prosecutorial Misconduct. ...
  • Sign #5: The Court Has No Jurisdiction in Your Case.

Why would a Judge postpone a hearing?

A hearing may be postponed by the Judge on the Judge's own initiative or for good cause shown upon the motion of a party. A motion for postponement shall state the position of the other parties, either by a joint motion or by a representation of the moving party.

How long does it take a judge to rule on a motion to dismiss?

It is difficult to provide an exact answer to this question, as the amount of time it takes for a judge to rule on a motion to dismiss can vary depending on a number of factors. Generally, it can take anywhere from a few days to a few weeks for a judge to reach a decision on a motion to dismiss.

What is a rule 12 motion?

Rule 12— Defenses and Objections— When and How Presented— By Pleading or Motion— Motion for Judgment on the Pleadings. (a) When Presented. (1) Unless a different time is prescribed in a statute of the United States, a defendant shall serve an answer.

Which of the following are proper grounds for a motion to dismiss?

These include dismissals for:
  • (b)(1) a lack of subject-matter jurisdiction.
  • (b)(2) a lack of personal jurisdiction.
  • (b)(3) improper venue.
  • (b)(4) insufficient process.
  • (b)(5) insufficient service of process.
  • (b)(6) failure to state a claim upon which relief can be granted.
  • (b)(7) failure to join a party under Rule 19.

Is continuance a good thing?

A continuance can provide many advantages if used appropriately: Time to Build a Strong Defense: More time can allow your lawyer to gather additional evidence, secure vital witnesses, or consult with experts that will strengthen your defense.

Can a continuance be denied?

A judge may deny a continuance when: the new evidence is reasonably related to evidence the defendant already knows about. the defendant has enough time without the continuance to prepare for the new evidence.

How to get a court date moved up?

You can file a motion to reset or reschedule the court date and see if the judge and the state will agree. Good cause would need to be shown and you would need to explain why this should be done, if the docket allows for it.

Why do lawyers delay cases?

Other times, each side might have requested a delay for its own reasons at various times - for example, an attorney might need time to gather more evidence, or a witness might not be available for trial on that date, or there might be a scheduling conflict.

How do I object to a continuance?

An objection to a continuance should be clear and positive, though no particular form of words is required. Words such as “I object,” or “We want it tried,” are clear enough. Expressions such as “Well, we leave it up to the court,” or “I cannot consent,” are equivocal, and will not be taken as objections.

What is the difference between continuance and extension?

In CRD cases, an extension of time refers to resetting the date on which a submission is due; a continuance refers to resetting the date or time on which an event, such as a hearing or a prehearing conference, is to take place; and a stay (of proceedings) refers to the suspension of all due dates for submissions or ...