Examples of Request for Continuance Form

Explore three practical examples of Request for Continuance Forms for various legal scenarios.
By Jamie

Introduction

A Request for Continuance Form is a legal document submitted to a court to ask for a postponement of a scheduled hearing or trial. This form is essential when circumstances arise that prevent one party from being able to attend or adequately prepare for their case. Below are three diverse, practical examples of how this form may be utilized in different contexts.

Example 1: Personal Injury Case Continuance Request

In a personal injury lawsuit, if the plaintiff’s attorney needs more time to gather evidence or if the plaintiff is unable to attend due to medical reasons, a Request for Continuance Form can be filed. This ensures that both parties are able to present their case fully and fairly.

[Your Name]  
[Your Address]  
[City, State, Zip Code]  
[Email Address]  
[Phone Number]  
[Date]

[Clerk of Court's Name]  
[Name of Court]  
[Address of Court]  
[City, State, Zip Code]

Re: Request for Continuance – Case No. [Case Number]

Dear [Clerk of Court's Name],

I am writing to formally request a continuance for the upcoming hearing scheduled for [original date]. The reason for this request is [brief explanation, e.g., "the plaintiff is undergoing medical treatment and will not be able to attend the hearing on that date"]. 

I believe that a postponement will allow both parties to prepare adequately, and I propose rescheduling the hearing to [proposed new date]. 

Thank you for your consideration of this matter. 

Sincerely,

[Your Name]  
[Your Title or Relationship to the Case]  

Notes: It’s important to attach any supporting documentation, such as medical records, to strengthen the request.

Example 2: Family Law Case Continuance Request

In family law cases, such as child custody disputes, a parent may need additional time to secure legal representation or gather necessary documents. In such cases, filing a Request for Continuance Form is critical to ensure that the legal process is conducted fairly.

[Your Name]  
[Your Address]  
[City, State, Zip Code]  
[Email Address]  
[Phone Number]  
[Date]

[Clerk of Court's Name]  
[Name of Court]  
[Address of Court]  
[City, State, Zip Code]

Re: Request for Continuance – Case No. [Case Number]

Dear [Clerk of Court's Name],

I am writing to request a continuance for the hearing scheduled on [original date] regarding custody arrangements for my child. The reason for this request is [brief explanation, e.g., "I am currently seeking legal counsel and need additional time to prepare my case"]. 

I respectfully request that we reschedule the hearing for a date that allows me to adequately prepare, such as [proposed new date]. 

Thank you for your understanding and consideration. 

Sincerely,

[Your Name]  
[Your Title or Relationship to the Case]  

Notes: Ensure to notify the other party involved about your request and consider including their acknowledgment in the submission.

Example 3: Criminal Case Continuance Request

In criminal cases, defendants may request a continuance if they require more time to gather evidence or if their attorney is unavailable. This form provides the court with necessary information to process the request efficiently.

[Your Name]  
[Your Address]  
[City, State, Zip Code]  
[Email Address]  
[Phone Number]  
[Date]

[Clerk of Court's Name]  
[Name of Court]  
[Address of Court]  
[City, State, Zip Code]

Re: Request for Continuance – Case No. [Case Number]

Dear [Clerk of Court's Name],

I am writing to request a continuance for the trial scheduled on [original date]. The reason for this request is [brief explanation, e.g., "my attorney is unavailable due to a scheduling conflict and I wish to have legal representation during the trial"]. 

I propose rescheduling the trial to a later date, preferably [proposed new date]. I appreciate your attention to this matter and your consideration of my request.

Thank you for your understanding.

Sincerely,

[Your Name]  
[Defendant in the Case]  

Notes: In criminal cases, timely filing is crucial. Make sure to check local rules regarding deadlines and procedures for submitting requests.