This form is a sample letter in Word format covering the subject matter of the title of the form.
Continuance For Trial In Queens
Category:
State:
Multi-State
County:
Queens
Control #:
US-0004LTR
Format:
Word;
Rich Text
Instant download
Description
Form popularity
FAQ
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.
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.
Judges do not grant continuances for no reason as the need for efficiency and giving a speedy trial go against the use of continuances. In a variety of circumstances, however, parties have a legitimate need to have more time before proceedings such as when new evidence is discovered or a witness needs to be found.
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 ...
A continuance can provide many advantages if used appropriately: 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.
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.
Valid reasons include personal emergencies, unavailability of essential evidence, and lack of legal representation. How do I notify the court? You can notify the court by directly speaking to the court clerk or filing a motion for continuance before the hearing begins.
You'll need to file a request with the court. This is usually done in the form of a written motion, which is a formal request to the court to make a particular decision. Your motion should explain why you need more time and how long of a delay you are requesting.
The applicant must specify the document they need more time to file, the date by which they were originally supposed to file it, and the total number of days they are requesting an extension for. The applicant must also state the reason(s) why they need more time to file the document.
A “motion for a continuance” is a request asking the judge to make an order changing your hearing date. If the judge grants your motion, your court date will be postponed to a later time. For most requests for continuances, you must provide the judge with a suitable reason (“good cause”) for postponing your court date.
