The first hearing in your Small Claims case is a pre-trial hearing. This is NOT a trial.To get a continuance for a trial, you must usually do both of these: File a motion for a continuance with the court. Attorneys and defendants are required to appear. Options on the Readiness Docket: Ready to go to trial. Fill out the Motion for Continuance form in this packet. It should say why you need the continuance. These rules govern the procedure and administration of the Eighth Judicial District Court and all actions or proceedings cognizable therein. Find information about a case, including if a complaint has been filed, next court date, bail amount, requirements due and disposition.