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 ...
Rule 12 - Defenses and Objections-When and How Presented-By Pleading or Motion-Motion for Judgment on Pleadings (a) When Presented. (1) After service upon him of any pleading requiring a responsive pleading, a party shall serve such responsive pleading within 20 days unless otherwise directed by order of the court.
Common reasons include needing more time to prepare, scheduling conflicts, waiting for important evidence, or health issues. Courts are more likely to grant a continuance for valid, substantiated reasons. Timing of the Request: Request the continuance as soon as you realize you need it.
To request a continuance regarding your DALA case, you (the party seeking the continuance or "the moving party") should submit a written request (a "motion") at least seven (7) days before the event. You can send your request by mail, fax, or e-mail.
For most requests for continuances, you must provide the judge with a suitable reason (“good cause”) for postponing your court date. “Good cause” means a very good reason for not being able to get ready for your case or go to your hearing on the schedule date.
Common grounds asserted by counsel as a basis for a requested continuance are: Illness of the defendant or important witnesses or defense counsel, conflicting engagements of counsel, lack of time for preparation by counsel or prejudicial publicity or a combination of several of the factors.... 30 Mass.