A continuance is a request any party can make to the court to have a hearing postponed to a later date. Anyone who wants a continuance must file a written motion in the Clerk of Court which gives reasons why the extra time is needed.

The motion has to be filed at least 7 days before the scheduled hearing or trial date.  Continuance requests are not always granted. The court will tell the party if it grants or denies the request.  If the request for a continuance is denied or if the party does not receive a written notice granting a continuance, they must appear as scheduled.  If it is granted, the notice will include the new date and time for the hearing.