What is an example of a continuance?

Asked by: Dr. Alfredo Osinski  |  Last update: March 31, 2025
Score: 4.8/5 (69 votes)

The defendant wants to request a continuance of 4 weeks. A continuance of 4 weeks means that the plaintiff may not see his son for four more weeks. The court may grant the continuance if an agreement can be reached allowing the plaintiff time to see his son in the period of time before the trial.

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 ...

What is an example of a letter asking for a continuance?

As I explained today, I need a continuance of the hearing on (date) . I ask you to reschedule because (reason): Please let me know by (date) if you will agree to a continuance. If you agree, please send me a letter or email that says that you agree to the continuance.

Why would someone 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.

What does it mean when someone files a continuance?

In legal terms, a change in a hearing date to a date in the future is called a “continuance” of the hearing. If the parties to a case are in agreement, it is more likely that the court will agree to change the hearing date.

Motion For Continuance

34 related questions found

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.

What is an example of continuance?

Example: In a custody hearing, the plaintiff has had no visitation with his son. The defendant wants to request a continuance of 4 weeks. A continuance of 4 weeks means that the plaintiff may not see his son for four more weeks.

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.

Why do prosecutors drag out cases?

Delaying the trial can serve many purposes. If the delay is based on proper reasons, it may allow the defense and the government to adequately prepare for the trial. For example, both sides can have ample time to gather and review evidence in the case.

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 long can you ask for a continuance in court?

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.

How to write a letter to a judge to dismiss a case?

Begin with a clear and concise introduction, stating the grounds for dismissal. Follow with a detailed argument section that outlines why the complaint should be dismissed, supported by legal authorities. Use Casefleet's customizable reports to organize your arguments and ensure all critical points are covered.

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.

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 write a continuance letter?

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.

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.

What is considered weak evidence?

If there's a lack of substantial proof or the evidence against you is mainly circumstantial, this could indicate a weak case. Perhaps they have no witnesses or DNA evidence.

How often are felony charges dropped?

Regardless of the cause, around 25-30% of felony charges get dropped before trial, so there's a decent chance your case could get dismissed, too.

Why should you never take a plea bargain?

Critics argue that plea bargains can result in innocent people pleading guilty to avoid the risk of a harsher sentence at trial. There are also concerns about the consistency and fairness of plea deals, as well as the potential for prosecutorial overreach.

Why would someone ask for a continuance in court?

What Are Good Reasons for a Continuance?
  • Service of process not made upon a defendant. In civil cases, all defendants must be adequately served with legal documents. ...
  • Delay in filing pleadings. ...
  • Absence of witness. ...
  • Absence of evidence. ...
  • Accidental loss or destruction of key documents. ...
  • Absence of counsel. ...
  • Absence of party.

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?

Some signs we look for are a lack of physical evidence, gaps in the chain of custody of evidence, contradictory eyewitness accounts, or witnesses who lack credibility. If the prosecution's case is built on a shaky foundation, they often realize a dismissal or plea deal is their best option.

What does it mean when a continuance is granted?

Continuance is what a court may grant to delay proceedings until a later date. Parties in a suit or the judge themselves may wish to have a continuance granted in order to prepare for proceedings.

What is an example of the law of continuation?

This is because once our eyes begin to follow something, they will continue to travel in that direction until it encounters another item or object. For instance, an excellent example of this Continuity principle is a line with an arrow at the end of it.

What factors should the judge examine when considering the prosecutor's request to postpone the trial?

The test requires the court to consider the length of the delay, the cause of the delay, the defendant's assertion of his right to a speedy trial, and the presence or absence of prejudice resulting from the delay.