AUTOMATIC CONTINUANCE Meaning and
Definition
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Automatic continuance refers to the process by which a legal action, such as a trial or lawsuit, is automatically extended or prolonged without requiring any formal action or intervention from the parties involved. It typically occurs when a specific event or circumstance triggers the extension of the proceedings according to established rules or regulations.
In legal terms, an automatic continuance can occur due to various reasons, such as the unavailability of key individuals, a change in jurisdiction, the need for additional time to gather evidence, or the occurrence of a related case or matter that necessitates postponement. These extensions are typically predetermined and do not require a specific motion or request from either party.
Automatic continuance is often governed by specific rules or laws, which outline the conditions and duration of the extension. These rules may differ depending on the jurisdiction or type of legal proceedings. For example, in criminal cases, an automatic continuance may be granted if a defendant becomes ill or if a witness is unable to appear due to unforeseen circumstances.
The purpose of automatic continuance is to ensure fairness and allow for the orderly administration of justice. It provides the necessary flexibility to adapt to unexpected events or circumstances, allowing the parties involved to adequately prepare their case or address any unforeseen issues. By automatically extending the proceedings, it helps maintain the integrity and effectiveness of the legal system by accommodating the needs of all parties involved.
Etymology of AUTOMATIC CONTINUANCE
The word "automatic" derives from the Greek word "automatos", which means "self-acting" or "self-moving". It is a compound of "auto", meaning "self", and "matos", meaning "thinking" or "acting".
The term "continuance" comes from the Latin word "continuare", which means "to continue" or "to make continuous". It is formed from the prefix "con-", meaning "together", and the verb "tinuare", which comes from "tenere", meaning "to hold".
When combined, "automatic continuance" refers to a process or action that occurs automatically and without interruption.
