I am writing to request a continuance of my case. I am scheduled for surgery on January , 2010.Explain the reasons why you have to miss your court date, and provide any documentation for proof, like a note from your doctor or work supervisor. In this article, we will discuss how to write a formal letter to a judge, along with the proper format and a sample letter. This page explains how a defendant or a respondent in a lawsuit can file an answer to protect their rights. If you lose and think the judge made a mistake in your case, you can file an appeal. You must do this within 28 days of the judgment. Edit, sign, and share sample letter to judge for missing court date online. What papers do I file with the court to ask the judge to set aside my default judgment? You should immediately call the Clerk of the Court at (202) 879-4879 to explain why you cannot appear.