A continuance is a procedure in civil and criminal litigation for postponing or delaying current or upcoming proceedings—often to locate a witness, or give the parties additional time to prepare for trial, or continue settlement discussions. A party may request the court grant a continuance, or the parties may agree to a continuance, which the judge generally must approve.
In Michigan, a continuance refers to the postponement or delay of a proceeding in both civil and criminal litigation. This procedural tool can be used for various reasons, such as needing more time to prepare for trial, continuing settlement negotiations, or locating a witness. A party to the case can request a continuance by filing a motion with the court, and the request must typically include the reasons for the delay. While the parties involved in a case can agree to a continuance, it is ultimately up to the judge to approve it. The judge will consider factors such as the need for additional time, the potential impact on the judicial schedule, and the rights of the parties involved before granting or denying the motion for a continuance. Michigan court rules and case law provide guidance on how and when continuances may be granted.