CONTINUANCE OF TRIAL

A motion for continuance by either party must be in writing unless made in a hearing in open court and must be signed by the party or attorney requesting the continuance. The motion must state the facts that the movant contends entitles the movant to a continuance. If a continuance is sought on the ground of non- availability of a witness, the motion must state when the witness will be available. The trial may be continued once upon the request of either party for not more than 120 days upon a showing of good cause, or by the court on its own motion in the interests of justice, when neither party will be substantially prejudiced. No additional continuances may be granted unless the court finds that a manifest injustice would otherwise occur. Continuances should be ordered only upon a showing of good cause. A motion for continuance on behalf of the respondent must state the respondent has been Florida Rules of Civil Procedure for Involuntary Commitment of Sexually Violent Predators January 1, 2024 10 advised of all consequences of the request and of any rights waived by the motion.