How many times can I extend my court date?
Asked by: Leta Torp | Last update: October 18, 2025Score: 4.1/5 (17 votes)
In most jurisdictions, there is no strict limit on the number of times a trial date can be postponed. However, judges generally prefer to see a valid reason for each request, and multiple requests may be granted or denied based on the judge's discretion.
How many extensions can you ask for in court?
Unless the court has expressly ordered otherwise, a party can generally get one 30-day extension of time beyond the initial due date without much question.
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.)
Is a continuance a good thing?
Good reasons for requesting a continuance include unforeseen personal emergencies, the need for additional time to prepare the case, the unavailability of a key witness, or obtaining new evidence that could significantly impact the outcome of the case.
What is a good reason for a continuance?
A continuance may be granted because unexpected evidence or testimony has emerged. This includes additional witnesses not named in the original indictment, or unanticipated testimony of witnesses, such as major differences of fact from deposition and trial. Minor differences in testimony do not constitute surprise.
CAN YOU CHANGE OR RESCHEDULE A COURT DATE FOR A TRAFFIC TICKET?
Can a continuance be denied?
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.
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 does my court date keep getting pushed back?
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.
How many times can you get an extension?
Generally, you can't request more than one tax extension per return.
How many times can you apply for extension?
May I apply more than once for an extension of my temporary resident status? You may apply as many times as you wish, but each time that you apply, you must complete a new application and pay the fee.
What is Rule 40 in court?
Rule 40 – Scheduling Cases for Trial. Each court must provide by rule for scheduling trials. The court must give priority to actions entitled to priority by a federal statute.
Can you go to court for the same thing twice?
The Double Jeopardy Clause in the Fifth Amendment to the US Constitution prohibits anyone from being prosecuted twice for substantially the same crime . The relevant part of the Fifth Amendment states, "No person shall . . . be subject for the same offense to be twice put in jeopardy of life or limb . . . . "
What happens when your court date is cancelled?
The case will normally be rescheduled. There are many reasons for canceling a court date. Just some of them: A power failure at the courthouse.
What is the strongest form of evidence against a defendant?
Direct evidence carries significant weight in a trial as it leaves little room for doubt or interpretation. It provides a strong basis for establishing the guilt of a defendant and can significantly impact the outcome of a case.
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.
How many times can a case be postponed before it's thrown out?
Theoretically, there is no limit. However, if you are the one opposing the continuances, each time you have a stronger argument that the continuance should be denied and the case dismissed. In the context of a criminal case, a defendant has a constitutional right to a speedy trial.
How many times can a deposition be rescheduled?
Generally, a judge will allow at least two or three adjournments before demanding the depositions go forward. Another reason a deposition may get adjourned would be to gather the necessary medical records for the deposition.
How many times can you ask for a continuance?
It depends on the court, but the judge will usually grant a continuance at your first court date with no questions asked. By the second court date, the judge may be reluctant to grant another continuance but he probably will do it. Don't expect another continuance after the first two.
Can you reschedule a court date for eviction?
If the landlord fails to show up, the eviction may be dismissed due to him not being there to make his case. If you know ahead of time that you cannot attend the hearing, and you have a VERY good reason, you can call the court and reschedule.
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.
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.
Why does my case keep getting continued?
There are many reasons cases are continued. Mostly it is because one side or the other needs more time to prepare for trial. Additional time allows for negotiations, finding witnesses, and preparing exhibits.
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.