Clearly state your request or relief sought Use clear and concise language Follow the court's rules and formatting guidelines Include any relevant evidence or legal authority to support your motion Address any potential counterarguments or objections that the other party may raise.
If the request is made less than 5 court days before the hearing on the Petition, an Ex Parte Application is required to seek a continuance, or the party may appear at the scheduled hearing and request a continuance.
Example: I am a full-time student at University College and I have final exams scheduled for that day and time.) I am requesting a continuance until after (provide a date when your scheduling issue will be resolved) when this scheduling conflict will be resolved. Thank you for your attention to this matter.
Be sure to include your case number, proposed dates, and an explanation for your request. Indicate whether the other party objected or consented to the request. If they objected to the request and provided a reason, include it.
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.
Some of the reasons that might necessitate a continuance include: You need additional time to secure an attorney to represent you in court. You need more time to gather evidence because the other side has been stalling on discovery requests. You need more time to locate witnesses who are critical to your case.
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.
I would like this Court to continue the hearing because: EXPLAIN REASON. PETITIONER/PLAINTIFF, v. RESPONDENT/DEFENDANT. I RESPECTFULLY REQUEST that the Court grant my Request for Continuance.
Contact Chambers Law Firm at 714-760-4088 for support from a criminal defense attorney. Start with a Clear Introduction. Introduce Yourself and Establish Credibility. Provide Reasons for Leniency. Tell a Story or Give Specific Examples. Provide Your Contact Information. Not the Same as a Motion to Modify a Sentence.