Trial Continuance Without Evidence In Massachusetts
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Common grounds asserted by counsel as a basis for a requested continuance are: Illness of the defendant or important witnesses or defense counsel, conflicting engagements of counsel, lack of time for preparation by counsel or prejudicial publicity or a combination of several of the factors.... 30 Mass.
You will need to file a written objection. Then the Judge will review and set it for a hearing if needed.
What Happens If a Motion for Continuance Is Denied? The case moves on. A defendant can appeal the judge's decision, but it's tough to overturn a trial judge's decision on a continuance motion. Appellate courts won't reverse the judge's decision except when it's clear the judge abused their discretion.
Even if the other party does not agree, you may still contact the court to request a continuance of the hearing date.
Judges expect the party who is requesting a continuance to have been diligent in preparing for trial. If you have not made a reasonable effort to obtain replacement counsel, the judge may deny your continuance request.
Benefits of Requesting a Continuance 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.
The definition of "continuance without a finding" is provided to make clear that, as used in these rules, the term presupposes that the defendant whose case has been so continued has formally submitted, and the court has accepted, a plea of guilty or an admission to sufficient facts.
Rule 17 - Summonses for Witnesses. (Applicable to District Court and Superior Court) (a) Summons. (1) For Attendance of Witness; Form; Issuance. A summons shall be issued by the clerk or any person so authorized by the General Laws.
"The best evidence rule provides that, where the contents of a document are to be proved, the party must either produce the original or show a sufficient excuse for its nonproduction.
Rule 17 is the process where a lawyer can ask the Court for a summons for third party records. To make a showing to acquire third party records a defendant must establish the following: A party moving to summons documents pursuant to Mass. R. Crim.
