Cal. Civ. Code § 29-18-118
Postponement of trial.
Operative Text
The general sessions judge may, at the request of either party, and on good reason being assigned, postpone the trial to any time not exceeding seven (7) days. The postponement shall not be for a longer period of time unless agreed upon by the parties, no civil court is being conducted, or upon request of the plaintiff, the party making the application for postponement paying the costs. As used in this section, “civil court” includes diversionary courts created for special civil proceedings.
Under Tenn. Code Ann. § 29-18-118, a general sessions judge has the authority to delay an eviction or unlawful detainer trial by up to seven days when either party shows good cause. Extensions beyond seven days are only permitted if both parties agree, no civil court is in session, or the plaintiff requests the delay and covers the associated costs. The provision clarifies that 'civil court' includes specialized diversionary courts created for particular civil proceedings.
Plain English — not legal advice.
Under § 29-18-118, landlords initiating a general sessions proceeding should be aware that either party may request a short postponement of up to seven days upon showing good reason. If a landlord as plaintiff seeks a longer delay, compliant practice involves covering the costs associated with that postponement request. Understanding these timing rules helps property owners plan around potential scheduling adjustments in eviction proceedings.
General guidance for property managers — not legal advice for your specific situation. Consult an attorney for advice on your case.
Section 29-18-118 gives tenants the right to request a postponement of up to seven days in a general sessions trial if they can show good cause to the judge. If a tenant needs more time, a longer delay generally requires agreement from the other party or other specific conditions to be met. Tenants facing eviction proceedings may wish to consult a tenant-rights organization to better understand how postponement rules could apply to their situation.
General guidance for tenants — not legal advice for your specific situation. Consult a tenant-rights organization or attorney for advice on your case.
Generated October 29, 2026 — auto-generated, not yet human-reviewed. See /transparency for methodology.
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