Art. 1602 Peremptory grounds

If you're heading to trial and can't get important evidence you need, even though you tried hard to get it, the judge must postpone your case. The same is true if a key witness is missing and it's not your fault they're gone.

This rule protects people from being forced into trial before they're ready through no fault of their own. You have to show you made a real effort to get your evidence or witness there. If you were careless or didn't try, the judge doesn't have to grant the postponement.

The point is fairness. Trials should be decided on the full picture, not just whatever happens to be available on a given day. If someone runs off with important testimony, or a document you need never showed up despite your best efforts, you shouldn't be punished for it. The judge is required to give you more time to fix the problem.