CALL US FOR A FREE CONSULTATION: 0207 459 4037

Reasons to Adjourn a Court Case in the UK

Guide to Successfully Adjourn Your Court Case

Adjourning a court case or hearing in the UK requires valid reasons, prompt action and supporting documentation. In this article, our lawyers discuss the grounds that you may request an adjournment, the step-by-step process for applying for an adjournment of a Court hearing, relevant case law to support your application, and frequently asked questions to help you navigate this area effectively.

For personalised advice or assistance, contact our expert litigation team for a Free Consultation today at 0207 459 4037.

Valid Reasons to Request an Adjournment

1. Medical Grounds

If you or a key witness are ill, the Court may grant an adjournment. To support this request, you will need to provide detailed medical evidence including:

  • Identification of the medical professional providing the evidence.
  • Specific details of the medical condition.
  • Explanation of why the condition prevents participation in the hearing.
  • Prognosis indicating when the individual will be fit to attend​​​​.

Example: A claimant suffering from a severe health condition such as cancer may provide a letter from their oncologist detailing the treatment schedule, side effects, and expected recovery time. This documentation would support the need for a postponement until the claimant is medically able to attend.

2. Unavailability of a Key Witness

When a key witness is unavailable, and their testimony is critical to the case, you can request an adjournment. Provide evidence such as witness statements explaining the necessity of their testimony and why they cannot attend the scheduled date​​.

Example: A critical expert witness in a construction dispute is unexpectedly called to testify in another high-profile case overseas. A detailed affidavit explaining their prior commitment and the crucial nature of their testimony in your case can support the adjournment request.

3. Issues with Legal Representation

If your legal representative is unavailable due to unforeseen circumstances, you may request an adjournment. However, you must demonstrate that it is impossible to find a suitable replacement in time​​​​.

Example: A solicitor representing a defendant in a complex fraud case falls seriously ill just days before the hearing. A letter from the solicitor’s firm, explaining the sudden illness and the difficulty in finding another lawyer with the same level of expertise on short notice, would support the request.

4. Insufficient Time to Prepare

If new evidence has surfaced or there have been delays in receiving important documents, you can request an adjournment. Ensure you detail why additional time is necessary for a fair hearing​​.

Example: Documents crucial to a contract dispute are disclosed late by the opposing party. The late disclosure leaves inadequate time for thorough review and preparation. An affidavit from your legal team outlining the importance of these documents and the need for additional time can justify the adjournment.

5. Administrative Issues

Administrative errors or scheduling conflicts that significantly impact your ability to present your case can be grounds for adjournment. Early and detailed applications are crucial in these situations​​.

Example: A clerical error results in your case being scheduled on a date when your primary witness is unavailable. A letter from your legal team explaining the mistake and the critical nature of the witness’s testimony can support the need for rescheduling.

How to Apply for an Adjournment

Step 1: Early Application – Submit your application as early as possible. Late applications are less likely to be granted unless there are exceptional circumstances​​.

Step 2: Prepare Supporting Evidence – Gather all necessary evidence to support your application. For medical adjournments, this includes detailed medical reports. For witness unavailability, provide witness statements and affidavits​​​​.

Step 3: Complete the Application Form – Fill out the appropriate application form (Form N244 for civil cases). Pay the required court fee and include all supporting documents. Ensure that your application clearly explains why the adjournment is necessary and the impact of not granting it​​​​.

Step 4: Notify the Other Party – Send a copy of your application and supporting documents to the opposing party. They may consent to or oppose the adjournment. Their response can influence the court’s decision​​.

Step 5: Court Hearing – If the court deems it necessary, a hearing will be scheduled to discuss the adjournment request. Be prepared to present your case clearly and respond to any questions from the judge​​.

Judge’s Considerations When Dealing with an Adjournment Application

When deciding whether to grant an adjournment, judges consider various factors to ensure that justice is served. These factors include:

  1. Timeliness of the Application: How early the request was made.
  2. Reason for the Request: Validity and importance of the reason for adjournment.
  3. Evidence Provided: Quality and robustness of the supporting evidence.
  4. Impact on Other Parties: How the adjournment affects the other party, including potential prejudice.
  5. Previous Adjournments: History of prior adjournments and reasons for those requests.
  6. Case Complexity: Complexity of the case and the necessity of the adjournment for a fair hearing.
  7. Availability of Alternatives: Possibility of alternative arrangements, such as remote hearings.
  8. Costs Implications: Who will bear the costs associated with the adjournment.

Previous Case Law on Adjournment Requests

Understanding previous court decisions can strengthen your application however each case is dealt with based on its unique facts, and the judge has discretion:

Case Name and CitationKey Points
Bilta (UK) Ltd & Ors v Tradition Financial Services Ltd [2021] EWCA Civ 221The Court of Appeal granted an adjournment due to an essential witness’s illness. The court emphasized the importance of a fair trial, stating that the absence of critical testimony would render the trial unfair. The judge noted, “Refusing an adjournment would make the trial unfair, the adjournment should ordinarily be granted even if inconvenient unless that inconvenience was outweighed by injustice to the other party.”
Naylor v University Hospitals of Leicester NHS Trust [2021] EWHC QB 340The High Court denied an adjournment request due to insufficient reasons regarding legal representation. The court highlighted that alternative counsel could have been arranged. The judge remarked, “The non-availability of counsel came nowhere near providing a basis for adjourning a trial.”
Decker v Hopcraft [2015] EWHC 1170 (QB)This case provided detailed principles for medical adjournments, emphasizing the need for specific and substantial medical evidence. The court stated, “The fact that a party cannot work as evidenced by a sick note does not necessarily lead to the conclusion that they cannot participate in proceedings.”
Levy v Ellis-Carr [2012] EWHC 63 (Ch)Highlighted the court’s discretion in granting adjournments based on medical evidence. The judge noted, “Parties who think that they thereby compel the Court not to proceed with the hearing or that their non-attendance somehow strengthens the application for an adjournment are deeply mistaken.”
Mulalley & Company Ltd v Regent Building Services Ltd [2017] EWHC 2962 (Ch)An adjournment on health grounds was granted, emphasizing the need for comprehensive medical documentation. The court required detailed medical evidence outlining the condition, its impact, and the prognosis.

Our Expertise in Adjournment Requests

Our lawyers have extensive experience in handling adjournment requests across various types of cases. We understand the intricacies involved and have successfully secured adjournments in complex situations, ensuring our clients have the best possible chance to present their case effectively.

If you have a hearing coming up that you would like to adjourn, please do not hesitate to contact our expert lawyers today for a Free Consultation on 0207 459 4037 or complete our calendar booking form below to set up a convenient time for us to discuss your case.

Case Example of Successful Adjournment less than 1 week before hearing

Our client instructed us less than 1 week before the hearing of a bankruptcy petition hearing, our expert lawyers were able to obtain an adjournment of the hearing by consent a few days before the hearing. Our lawyers advised the client to apply for Breathing Space which was granted for a period of 3 months – this halted all enforcement action. We were also able to provide detailed medical evidence to support our client’s physical and mental health issues.

FAQs about Adjournment of Court Cases

What are the risks if my adjournment request is denied?

If your request is denied, you must proceed with the hearing as scheduled. This could result in a less prepared presentation of your case, potentially affecting the outcome. Consulting with our experienced legal team can help strengthen your application.

Can I appeal a decision to deny my adjournment request?

Yes, you can appeal the decision, but it must be based on a legal error made by the judge in their decision. Our lawyers can advise you on the likelihood of success and the steps involved in an appeal.

What costs are associated with an adjournment request?

Costs can include the application fee, legal fees for preparing and presenting the request, and any costs incurred by the opposing party due to the delay. The court may decide who should bear these costs. Our team can provide a detailed estimate based on your specific circumstances.

How does an adjournment affect the overall timeline of my case?

An adjournment can delay the resolution of your case, potentially leading to increased legal costs and prolonged uncertainty. It is essential to weigh these factors and discuss them with your legal advisor to make an informed decision.

Are there alternatives to an adjournment if my request is denied?

If your request is denied, consider alternatives such as proceeding with a different legal representative, requesting a partial adjournment for specific issues, or negotiating a settlement. Our experienced lawyers can explore all available options with you.

Reviews

Karim Oualnan handled a contractual case to a successful resolution. Karim was very diligent, always providing great, honest advice in which Karim always put my best interests at the forefront of his suggestions during the case. He is very reliable, trustworthy and always on hand to help. I would highly recommend Karim.
I have no hesitation in recommending the services of Karim and his team. I had been banging my head against a brick wall after my bank forced the closure of my accounts and froze a substantial amount of my cash assets. Karim quickly reviewed all of the documentation relating to the matter and issued a letter before claim and formal...
We hired Karim for a commercial dispute, with a UK based entity that breached our P.O. terms. The difficulty with the case was that we have paid a down payment without much leverage to recover it. The supplier misled us forever 2 years and finally decided not to pay our down payment. However, with the support of the lead lawyer...
Very satisfied with the way that Karim Oualnan and his team took hold of a messy conveyancing professional negligence claim, and progressed it all the way through to an amicable settlement in just over 6 months. Professional, courteous, knowledgeable and also pragmatic with advice and strategy. I would not hesitate to recommend.
Karim offered me some advice regarding a lease issue. He was kind , courteous, knowledgable and above all really generous with his time and support . I would recommend Karim in a heartbeat for explaining things so clearly without patronising and for making me feel so at ease.
Karim is wonderful to work with, attentive, calmed and a knowledgeable professional. I appreciate his help a lot, he guided me in a way that not a lot of people does. Reliable and a great motivator.

Choose Excellence in Dispute Resolution

Our Mission

Our litigation solicitors have a proven track record of delivering successful outcomes for clients. Go Legal was founded to make exceptional lawyers accessible and solutions affordable.

Our lawyers and mediators have decades of experience and specialise exclusively in commercial litigation. Our lawyers have been described as “the best litigators in the country” & provide solutions to clients in the following areas of law:

karim sign

Karim Oualnan

Partner and Managing Director

Litigation Lawyer of the Year - Karim Oualnan

Our Story

Having worked more than a decade in law and fuelled by his passion for access to justice, Karim envisaged a different law firm – one that stood as a symbol of hope, fairness, and an unwavering dedication to justice. By providing legal services through a partnership with Go Legal and Spencer West, Karim has been able to create this vision.

Karim did not have a storybook beginning. His childhood echoed with challenges, where he witnessed his family and friends struggle with legal issues. It made him realise that there are individuals and businesses caught up in the complexities of the UK legal system who need reliable, affordable and technically astute lawyers to get results.

Our lawyers make a promise – we will work hard to achieve the best outcome for you. We are here to help!

Our Values

Our firm’s values ensure that we consistently exceed client expectations. We are:

  • Honest: Our lawyers are trusted by many clients
  • Generous: We are technically astute lawyers with compassion, & a genuine desire to help
  • Dedication: Our lawyers tackle each case with relentless dedication & work tirelessly to achieve a successful outcome
  • Innovative: We have access to technology & strategies not used by other law firms
  • Guardians: Our lawyers will guide you through every legal step, ensuring clarity & understanding at all stages

200+

Lawyers*

95%+

Success

20

Offices*

*through our exclusive partnership with Spencer West LLP

Our lawyers are regulated and members of:

Why instruct Go Legal

why-icon-6-6

Expertise

Our team of award-winning legal experts are renowned for their technical expertise, honesty and dependability. We prioritise customer satisfaction by providing personalised attention and ensuring that we consistently exceed our clients' expectations throughout.

why icon 2

Rapid Response​

We understand the urgency of legal matters and offer 24/7 support to clients. Whether you require immediate assistance with legal advice or representation, our team is always available to provide prompt and reliable support. We will create a Whatsapp group with you and your legal team once instructed if you have any out of hours questions throughout your litigation and dispute resolution case.

why icon 3

Fair and Transparent pricing

We provide honest estimates for our legal services at the very outset. We are often instructed on an hourly rate basis, but we can offer discounted fixed fee packages, and no-win no fee agreements. For further information, please see our Funding page which sets out some of the packages we may be able to offer clients.

fast litigation and dispute resolution lawyers

Fast & Reliable

Efficiency and dedication to our clients’ needs are the cornerstones of our practice. We have earned the appreciation and praise of clients and even our opponents by consistently meeting high standards and delivering exceptional results.

why icon 5

Qualified and Regulated

Our team consists of highly qualified and regulated legal professionals who possess extensive knowledge and experience in dispute resolution. You can trust that your legal matter will be handled by specialist and experienced lawyers who provide the highest level of service to achieve the best result for your case.

why icon 1

Customer Satisfaction Guarantee

We are so confident in our ability that we give our clients a service level guarantee. If you are not happy with the service we provide on your case, you can request a 10% discount on our invoice(s) no questions asked.

1. Book Free Consultation

2. Our Lawyers will call you

3. We will represent your best interests to success

Schedule a Free Consultation

Select Date & Time below
Maximum file size: 10 MB
error: Content is protected !!
Search
go-legal-white-logo

How can we help?

Resolving Payment Disputes: A Legal Guide for the UK Construction Sector

We are here to help you. Call us for your Free Consultation: 0207 459 4037

The Ultimate Guide to Construction Project Management: Legal Tips & Best Practices

We are here to help you. Call us for your Free Consultation: 0207 459 4037

The Complete Guide to Litigation Funding in England & Wales

We are here to help you. Call us for your Free Consultation: 0207 459 4037

The Essential Guide to Intellectual Property Protection in the UK

We are here to help you. Call us for your Free Consultation: 0207 459 4037

Understanding Defamation: A Comprehensive Guide

We are here to help you. Call us for your Free Consultation: 0207 459 4037

A Comprehensive Guide to Preventing and Resolving Partnership Disputes

We are here to help you. Call us for your Free Consultation: 0207 459 4037

Navigating Partnership Disputes: A Step-by-Step Guide

We are here to help you. Call us for your Free Consultation: 0207 459 4037

Understanding Your Rights: A Guide to Financial Services Disputes in the UK

We are here to help you. Call us for your Free Consultation: 0207 459 4037

The Essential Guide to Resolving Financial Services Disputes in the UK

We are here to help you. Call us for your Free Consultation: 0207 459 4037

Understanding Professional Negligence: An Introductory Guide

We are here to help you. Call us for your Free Consultation: 0207 459 4037

Guide to starting a Professional Negligence Claim

We are here to help you. Call us for your free consultation: 0207 459 4037

Appealing HMRC Decisions: Your Rights and Procedures

We are here to help you. Call us for your Free Consultation: 0207 459 4037

A Guide to Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) in HMRC Disputes

We are here to help you. Call us for your Free Consultation: 0207 459 4037

Best Practices to Minimise Bad Debts

We are here to help you. Call us for your Free Consultation: 0207 459 4037

How to start a Debt Claim

We are here to help you. Call us for your Free Consultation: 0207 459 4037

A Guide to Creditors' Rights in Insolvency Proceedings

We are here to help you. Call us for your Free Consultation: 0207 459 4037

Crypto Recovery Group: Overview of Cryptocurrency Recovery& Fraud

We are here to help you. Call us for your Free Consultation: 0207 459 4037

Cryptocurrency Tax Disputes: Navigating the Grey Areas

We are here to help you. Call us for your Free Consultation: 0207 459 4037

Avoiding Insolvency: Early Warning Signs and Remedial Actions

We are here to help you. Call us for your Free Consultation: 0207 459 4037

Navigating Corporate Insolvency: A Step-by-Step Guide

We are here to help you. Call us for your Free Consultation: 0207 459 4037

Preventing Shareholder Disputes: A Proactive Approach

We are here to help you. Call us for your Free Consultation: 0207 459 4037

The Legal Implications of Deadlock in 50/50 Owned Companies

We are here to help you. Call us for your Free Consultation: 0207 459 4037