Motions and hearings · Question 8 of 10
What is a continuance?
A continuance postpones a hearing or trial date, granted when good cause exists and balance of convenience favors delay.… General legal information for self-represented litigants—not legal advice.
Short answer
A continuance postpones a hearing or trial date, granted when good cause exists and balance of convenience favors delay.
What the court expects
Repeated continuances may be denied. Some courts require agreed continuance forms; others require written motions.
Practical steps
Request continuances as early as possible with specific reasons—not the day before without emergency grounds.
Earlier in this series
If you are working through this topic step by step, review "What is a motion in limine?" before moving to related deadlines and filings.
References and official sources
Cross-check every rule and deadline against current official publications. Links open external government and court resources.
Related questions
Deeper guides and resources
Motions path
Progressive path: quick Q&A → deeper help → structured learning.
This Litigation Architect Q&A series provides general legal information for self-represented litigants. It is not legal advice, does not create an attorney-client relationship, and does not guarantee outcomes. Verify all deadlines, rules, and local requirements on your official court docket and with qualified counsel when needed.