How long can you ask for a continuance in court?
Asked by: Emilie Bartoletti IV | Last update: May 5, 2025Score: 4.4/5 (22 votes)
The length of the continuance depends on the situation and generally can be no longer than is “necessary.” A defendant might ask for several months to prepare for trial. But if a witness gets sick, a continuance of a few days might suffice.
What are good reasons to ask 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.
Do judges usually grant continuance?
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.
What is a good cause for continuance?
Circumstances that may indicate good cause for a continuance include the unavailability of an essential witness (CRC 3.1332 (c)(1)); the unavailability of a party because of death, illness, or other excusable circumstances (CRC 3.1332 (c)(2)); or a significant, unanticipated change in the status of the case as a result ...
What are the rules for a continuance in California?
(1) A continuance may be granted only on a showing of good cause and only for the time shown to be necessary. Stipulation between counsel or parties and convenience of parties are not in and of themselves good cause.
Motion For Continuance
How many times can you ask for a continuance?
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 request a continuance of a hearing in California?
IF THE HEARING IS LESS THAN 45 DAYS FROM THE HEARING DATE, THE APPLICANT MAY REQUEST A CONTINUANCE FOR EXIGENT CIRCUMSTANCES BY FILING AN EX PARTE APPLICATION, OR BY APPEARING AT THE HEARING AND SO REQUESTING.
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 long can you delay a court case?
However, one rule of thumb is eight months. Courts will usually presume they delay of this length has been sufficient to satisfy a defendant's claim that their right to a speedy trial is being denied.
Can I ask for a continuance without a lawyer?
Can I Get a Continuance Without a Lawyer? All parties in a case have the right to request continuance whether they have hired a lawyer or are ready to represent themselves in court. However, in addition to ensuring they have a valid reason, the requesting party must follow the court's proper requesting procedures.
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.
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 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.
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.
Why do lawyers ask for a continuance?
Benefits of Requesting a Continuance
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. Better Preparation: Rushing to trial with an unprepared defense could result in a poor outcome.
How do you 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 a good cause for a 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 ...
Can you go to jail for being late to court?
First of all, a warrant may be issued for the accused's arrest (called a “capias”). Now, there's a double standard here, for sure, because if an officer fails to appear for a hearing (or is late)–nothing is done, and often times the case is continued. But if a defendant behaves in the same way, it's time to go to jail.
What is the difference between a postponement and a continuance?
Continuances are similar to both postponements and stays of proceedings. Postponements also delay proceedings for different reasons, but postponements usually only delay until another date within the current term of the court, unlike continuances that may be extended to another term.
What are two reasons for granting a trial continuance?
- Absence of witness or evidence.
- Absence or incapacity of counsel.
- Absence of party.
- Surprise.
- Other grounds.
What is the law of continuance?
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 do I write a letter requesting a continuance?
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.
Can a motion for continuance be denied?
In a Nutshell: A judge may deny a Motion to Continue filed by the prosecution, even if it foreseeably means a motion to suppress may be granted, resulting in dismissal of the case.
What is a stipulated order of continuance?
What is an SOC (Stipulated Order of Continuance)? In an SOC, the defendant enters into a contractual agreement with the prosecutor that is merely approved by the court. If the defendant follows his/her part of the bargain, the prosecution will move to dismiss the case at the end.