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Continuance Of Trial Date In Massachusetts
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Multi-State
Control #:
US-0004LTR
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Word;
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FAQ
And even the courts closing due to bad weather. Each of these reasons can lead to a continuence.MoreAnd even the courts closing due to bad weather. Each of these reasons can lead to a continuence. Which is essentially a postponement of the trial.
Judges have wide discretion to grant and deny continuances. Some judges routinely grant requests from all lawyers. Others may be reluctant if they believe there is not a good reason for delay. Some judges can be very tough with continuances, and may refuse most requests.
Some typical grounds for a continuance motion include the unavailability of a witness; counsel's required presence in another court; illness of the defendant; prejudicial pretrial publicity; and an adequate opportunity to prepare the case, necessitated by such events as an amendment of the complaint, change of counsel, ...
If you cannot meet a deadline or a date on which you have to make an appearance, you must ask for a postponement, which is called a “continuance,” with a motion. If you miss a deadline, your case can be dismissed. DALA continuances will be granted only for good cause.
How Many Continuances Are Allowed? 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.
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.
The continuence might be longer this allows both parties adequate time to prepare their casesMoreThe continuence might be longer this allows both parties adequate time to prepare their cases properly.
Judge might deny it because it's becoming an older case and needs to be moved along, especially as it nears 5 years. Judge might want an explanation if trial has been set for many months and you show up weeks before asking to continue the trial without explaining.
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.
Rule 17 - Summonses for Witnesses. (Applicable to District Court and Superior Court) (a) Summons. (1) For Attendance of Witness; Form; Issuance. A summons shall be issued by the clerk or any person so authorized by the General Laws.
