An Illinois Order for Continuance is an order issued by a court in the state of Illinois that stays or delays the proceedings of a criminal case. This order can be used to provide more time for the parties to prepare for trial or to continue a case that is ongoing. There are two types of Illinois Order for Continuance: statutory and non-statutory. A statutory Order for Continuance is issued pursuant to the Illinois Criminal Code of 1961 which allows the court to stay proceedings if a “just and reasonable” delay is requested. A non-statutory Order for Continuance is issued at the discretion of the court and is subject to more flexible terms. Both types of Orders for Continuance are typically issued for a period of time so that the parties can adequately prepare for the next hearing or trial.