continuance

In one sentence

A court-approved delay or postponement of a scheduled hearing, trial, or other legal proceeding.

Plain English

A continuance is when a judge agrees to reschedule a court date to a later time. Either party (or sometimes the judge) may request a continuance for reasons like needing more time to prepare, waiting for evidence, or resolving scheduling conflicts. The judge decides whether the reason is good enough to grant the continuance.

Ad slot

Example

Two weeks before trial, the defendant's lawyer asks for a continuance because a key witness is ill and unavailable. The prosecutor agrees, and the judge grants the continuance, moving the trial date to six weeks later.

Used in a sentence

“The judge granted a continuance to allow the defense team time to review the new evidence.”

Related terms

Evidence

Information, documents, or physical items presented in court to prove or disprove facts.

expert witness

A person with specialized knowledge who testifies in court about technical or scientific matters beyond ordinary understanding.

arraignment on indictment

A defendant's first court appearance after being formally charged by a grand jury.

Summons

A court order requiring someone to appear in court or respond to a lawsuit.

defendant

The person accused of a crime in a criminal case or sued in a civil case.

Stand Your Ground

A law allowing a person to use force, including deadly force, to defend themselves without a duty to retreat.

Castle Doctrine

A law stating that a person's home is their castle and they can use force to defend it without duty to retreat.

Expungement

A legal process that erases or seals a criminal conviction from your record.

This page is a plain-English reference and is not legal advice. Laws vary by jurisdiction and change over time. For specific situations consult a licensed attorney.