A continuance is a court-approved delay or rescheduling of a hearing, deadline, trial, or other case event.
In plain language, it means the court moves something to a later date. A continuance may be requested by a party or ordered by the court.
Why it matters
Continuances matter because litigation runs on deadlines. A continuance can give a party more time to prepare, respond to new evidence, obtain counsel, complete discovery, or address scheduling conflicts.
They also matter because delay can affect witnesses, costs, trial readiness, and the court’s calendar.
Where it appears
Continuances appear in scheduling orders, motion calendars, trial settings, discovery deadlines, criminal hearings, and civil-case management conferences.
Practical example
A key witness becomes unavailable shortly before trial. A party files a motion asking the court to continue the trial date.
How it differs from nearby terms
A continuance differs from a court order, though a continuance is usually granted or denied by order.
It also differs from settlement. Settlement resolves the dispute; a continuance only changes timing.
Related terms
Quick knowledge check
Question: What does a continuance do?
Answer: It delays or reschedules a court event or deadline.