Introduction
An Application for Adjournment is filed before the court when a matter cannot be effectively proceeded with on the scheduled date, particularly due to the unavailability of counsel for valid and unavoidable reasons. Such an application seeks a short deferment of proceedings to ensure proper representation and fair adjudication of the matter.
Courts consider adjournment as a matter of judicial discretion, and it is granted only where sufficient cause is shown and the request appears bona fide. The application must reflect respect for court time and should not be used as a tool for unnecessary delay. In professional practice, a properly drafted adjournment application assists the court in balancing procedural fairness with the need for expeditious disposal of cases.
Legal Provision
- Civil Proceedings: Order XVII, Rule 1 of the Code of Civil Procedure, 1908
- Criminal Proceedings: Section 344 of the Code of Criminal Procedure, 1898
Application For Adjournment Format In Pakistan
The format of the application for adjourment is given below:
IN THE COURT OF _____________ SENIOR CIVIL JUDGE
AT KARACHI DISTRICT ______________
CIVIL SUIT NO: ______ OF 20______
ABC —————————————————————— Plaintiff
V E R S U S
XYZ —————————————————————— Defendant
APPLICATION FOR ADJOURNMENT
It is most respectfully prayed on behalf of Plaintiff or Defendant (in which party name is mentioned according to the side you are representing, whether Plaintiff or Defendant) above named that this Honourable Court may kindly be pleased to adjourn the matter which is fixed today, for the reason that _________________________________________________________________________________________________________ due to which the instant matter is unable to proceed today for about valid reason. Therefore, it is most respectfully prayed that you kindly request to adjourn the instant matter to some other date of hearing in the larger interest of justice.
Prayed Accordingly
KARACHI
DATED: _____________
ADVOCATE FOR PLAINTIFF OR DEFENDANT
Disclaimer
The format and information provided above are for educational and reference purposes only. They are intended to offer general guidance on legal drafting and procedure and should not be treated as legal advice. Each case depends on its own specific facts, applicable law, and court practice; therefore, users are advised to modify the format according to their particular circumstances and seek professional legal advice as necessary.