Trial Ask For Continuance In Philadelphia
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You can file a written request or motion justifying the need for a continuance that may be granted or denied. You will need to contact the other party to see if they are willing to agree to the continuance, which will enhance your ability to get the continuance.
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.
Hearings will only be continued for a valid reason. To request a continuance, send a letter to Patricia R. McDermott, Deputy Court Administrator, 34 S. 11th Street, 5th Floor, Philadelphia, PA 19107, with a copy to the other parties at least ten days before the hearing date.
Circumstances that may indicate good cause for a continuance include the unavailability of an essential witness (CRC 3.1332 (c)(1)); the unavailability of a party because of death, illness, or other excusable circumstances (CRC 3.1332 (c)(2)); or a significant, unanticipated change in the status of the case as a result ...
What are valid reasons for requesting a continuance? Valid reasons include personal emergencies, unavailability of essential evidence, and lack of legal representation.
If the parties to a case are in agreement, it is more likely that the court will agree to change the hearing date. Even if the other party does not agree, you may still contact the court to request a continuance of the hearing date.
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.
As I explained today, I need a continuance of the hearing on (date) . I ask you to reschedule because (reason): Please let me know by (date) if you will agree to a continuance. If you agree, please send me a letter or email that says that you agree to the continuance.
Therefore, there is no limit to the number of continuances that may be granted. Likewise, there is no absolute right to any continuances at all. The determination of whether to grant a continuance is solely within the discretion of the judge.
There is no set limit to how many times a case can be continued. The limitation is on how long a case can take to be brought to trial. That time limit is 365 days plus any any days construednagainst the defendant (usually defense continuances). Its not unusual for cases to take a year.
