A motion for continuance asks the court to postpone a hearing, trial, or deadline. Judges have broad discretion here, and a vague or last-minute request is one of the most commonly denied motions in any court's docket.
State the specific reason, not just the request
Newly discovered evidence, a scheduling conflict, an unavailable witness, or a medical emergency each need to be stated concretely, with supporting detail — 'more time is needed' on its own rarely persuades a judge.
File it as early as possible
Courts weigh how much notice the request gives, both to the court and the opposing party. A continuance requested the day before a hearing faces far more scrutiny than one filed weeks in advance.
Address whether the other side objects
A motion noting that opposing counsel doesn't oppose the continuance is generally granted far more easily than one that's contested — and most courts expect you to have at least asked.
Propose a new date, don't leave it open-ended
Suggesting a specific replacement date (checked against the court's calendar where possible) makes the motion easier for a judge to grant on the spot rather than requiring a follow-up scheduling conference.