Rule 251 Continuance

To delay a court case (called a "continuance"), you must have a good reason. The court will not just take your word for it. You need to back up your request with a sworn written statement called an affidavit that explains why you need more time.

There are only three ways to get a delay approved. First, you can show the court a valid reason supported by that sworn statement. Second, both sides can agree to the delay. Third, the law itself may require one in certain situations.

The court also will not even consider a delay request until the defendant has already filed their legal response to the case. So if you are a defendant, you need to handle your paperwork first before asking for extra time.