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Adjournment
An adjournment is a court order postponing your case to a later date, delaying further proceedings.
What it actually is
In a court case, an adjournment pauses the current hearing or trial and moves it to a new scheduled time. It can be requested by a party or ordered by the judge for reasons like needing more preparation, unavailability of a witness, or scheduling conflicts.
Why it matters in your case
If you are in a case, an adjournment gives you extra time to gather evidence, find a lawyer, or resolve other issues, but it also prolongs the process and can cause delays or additional costs. Understanding it helps you know what to expect when a hearing is postponed instead of completed.
The common misunderstanding
Many people confuse an adjournment with a dismissal—an adjournment does not end your case; it merely pauses it. Also, asking for an adjournment does not guarantee the judge will grant it, especially if the request is made at the last minute.
Get the actual rule
Definitions are orientation; rules are authority
This page explains the concept. When it matters to your case, read the rule that governs it in your court — we hold Texas, federal and Washington court rules word for word, and every state's official resources are on the state pages. If someone cites a case at you, check that it exists first.
Related
Terms that travel with this one
General explanation, not legal advice, and not specific to any state — procedures and deadlines vary by jurisdiction and court. If you can get a lawyer or free legal aid, do: every real option.