How do I ask for extra time in court?

Asked by: Alba Crooks  |  Last update: July 12, 2025
Score: 5/5 (55 votes)

When a party to a lawsuit needs to postpone a matter that has a legal deadline or that has been calendared for a hearing or trial, the proper procedure is to apply to the court for a continuance (postponement to a later date). A request for a continuance can be written or oral depending on the circumstances.

How do I ask for more time in court?

Generally, for extension requests, most judges require both parties to “confer” (communicate with one another) and try to obtain the other party's consent for extra time. If the other party does not give their consent, you can still move forward with filing your request.

How to plead for an extension of time?

Key takeaways:
  1. Ask for an extension as soon as you know you'll need it.
  2. Meet with your supervisor in person, if possible, to explain the situation.
  3. Offer valid reasons why you're asking for an extension and the ways you've tried to keep the project on track.

How do you ask for extra time?

Requesting a deadline extension
  1. You may ask for an extension. ...
  2. Make sure you have a concrete and appropriate reason for asking for an extension. ...
  3. Don't wait until the last minute to ask for an extension. ...
  4. Be tactful and diplomatic in your wording. ...
  5. For the sake of speed, phone the employer to discuss the situation.

How to write a letter to a judge asking for more time?

Begin with a formal salutation, such as "Dear Judge [Last Name]," and introduce yourself and your case. Clearly state your reasons for requesting a continuance and provide supporting evidence. Conclude your letter by expressing your gratitude and willingness to cooperate with the court's decision.

How To Win In Court With These 7 Body Language Secrets!

22 related questions found

What are good reasons to ask for a continuance?

What are valid reasons for requesting a continuance? Valid reasons include personal emergencies, unavailability of essential evidence, and lack of legal representation.

Does writing a letter to the judge help?

Writing a letter to a judge requesting leniency can be a crucial step in influencing the outcome of a sentencing. Such letters, often submitted during the sentencing phase of a criminal case, aim to persuade the judge to impose a lighter sentence.

How do you politely request more time?

How to ask for a deadline extension
  1. Determine how to request for extension. ...
  2. Give them a credible and specific reason. ...
  3. Give a reasonable new deadline and adhere to it. ...
  4. Express your gratitude to your supervisor or manager. ...
  5. Renew your commitment to the team.

How do you write a letter requesting an extension of time?

Explain why you need this extension (i.e. to cover costs of________ until ________). Itemize and explain any monthly costs and any other additional costs associated with the requested time extension. If there will be no cost change as a result of the additional time requested, say so.

How do you formally ask for time?

Do you know what time it is?” For formal or unfamiliar situations, you can be more polite. “Excuse me, do you have the time?” “Could you please tell me the time?”

What is a motion for more time in court?

A “motion for a continuance” is a request asking the judge to make an order changing your hearing date. If the judge grants your motion, your court date will be postponed to a later time. For most requests for continuances, you must provide the judge with a suitable reason (“good cause”) for postponing your court date.

How do I file an extension of time?

To request a filing extension, use the California Department of Tax and Fee Administration's (CDTFA) online services. You must have a CDTFA Online Services Username or User ID and Password. You must submit a request for extension no later than one month after the due date of your return or prepayment form and payment.

How do you politely ask for an extension example?

I am emailing you to request an extension. Three days ago, I had a severe allergic reaction and was hospitalized. Because of my illness, my problem-solution essay will not be complete by tomorrow's deadline. Half of my draft is finished, and an extension would allow me to finish the essay.

What is the best excuse for being late to court?

7 of them are:
  • you were never notified of the court date,
  • you did not make a written promise to appear,
  • you had a medical emergency,
  • you were involved in a car accident or your car broke down on your way to court,
  • there was a serious family crisis or emergency,
  • the court made a scheduling error, and.

What is it called when you ask the judge for more time?

A continuance may be requested when a party needs additional time to appear on a matter or comply with a court order. The prosecution, the defense or the judge may continue a hearing.

How many continuances can you ask for in court?

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 can I request an extension?

File Form 4868, Application for Automatic Extension of Time To File U.S. Individual Income Tax Return. You can file by mail, online with an IRS e-filing partner or through a tax professional.

How do you write an extension of time?

Step-by-Step Guide: How to Write an EOT Notice
  1. Review the Contract. ...
  2. Describe the Delay Event. ...
  3. Assess the Schedule Impact. ...
  4. Propose a New Completion Date. ...
  5. List Mitigation Efforts. ...
  6. Compile Supporting Evidence. ...
  7. Draft the Notice. ...
  8. Submit Promptly.

How do I write an email to ask for more time?

Crafting the Content of the Letter
  1. Write the letter as soon as you can. ...
  2. Determine how much extra time you will need. ...
  3. Be aware of the existing rules. ...
  4. Include a sound explanation for your request. ...
  5. Provide a few carefully chosen details as part of your request. ...
  6. Stay positive in tone and content.

How do I ask for extra time?

How can you ask for a deadline extension without sounding unprofessional?
  1. Assess your situation. ...
  2. Communicate early and clearly. ...
  3. Provide a valid reason. ...
  4. Offer a solution. ...
  5. Apologize and express gratitude.

How do you ask for extra hours?

The 5 Step Process for Requesting More Hours at Work
  1. Develop Good Standing Relations with Managers. Building a strong rapport with your manager is the first critical step. ...
  2. Identify All Available Times You Can Work. ...
  3. Find High-Stress Times for the Team. ...
  4. Prepare to Make the Request. ...
  5. Make the Ask and State Your Case.

How do you ask for more time together?

For example, saying something like, "I feel like we haven't had much time to connect lately, and I miss that," effectively communicates your feelings without implying fault. It's a gentle but clear way of expressing your desire for more intimate time together.

How to ask for leniency in court?

When writing your letter, you'll want to focus on factors that might persuade the judge to be more lenient in their sentencing. This could include things like the defendant's past accomplishments, positive contributions to the community, or evidence of remorse and rehabilitation.

Will a judge read my letter?

During sentencing, a judge will typically only allow a certain number of live witnesses to testify as to a defendant's character but will accept almost any number of letters. Of course, a character letter is only effective if it is well-written and helps the judge understand a fuller picture of the defendant.

How to write a support letter for court?

  1. The letter should be addressed to the Judge, but mailed to the defendant's attorney. ...
  2. Who are you? ...
  3. Make it personal when describing the defendant's characteristics. ...
  4. Only talk about what you know. ...
  5. Be truthful. ...
  6. Never attack the victims or law enforcement. ...
  7. Never allow the defendant to write the letter for you.