California, United States of America
The following excerpt is from People v. Kooyumjian, F069218 (Cal. App. 2015):
"A continuance in a criminal case may be granted only for good cause. ([Pen. Code,] 1050, subd. (e).) Whether good cause exists is a question for the trial court's discretion. [Citation.] The court must consider '"'not only the benefit which the moving party anticipates but also the likelihood that such benefit will result, the burden on other witnesses, jurors and the court and, above all, whether substantial justice will be accomplished or defeated by a granting of the motion.'"' [Citation.] While a showing of good cause requires that both counsel and the defendant demonstrate they have prepared for trial with due diligence [citation], the trial court may not exercise its discretion 'so as to deprive the defendant or his attorney of a reasonable opportunity to prepare.' [Citation.]" (People v. Doolin (2009) 45 Cal.4th 390, 450.)
"A reviewing court considers the circumstances of each case and the reasons presented for the request to determine whether a trial court's denial of a continuance was so arbitrary as to deny due process. [Citation.] Absent a showing of an abuse of discretion and prejudice, the trial court's denial does not warrant reversal." (People v. Doolin, supra, 45 Cal.4th at p. 450, italics added.)
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