What is a 'motion for extension of time' and typical grounds?

• A. A request to extend deadlines for filing or responding, often due to complexity, workload, or need for more facts.
• B. A request to shorten deadlines due to urgency.
• C. A motion to compel discovery.
• D. A motion for reconsideration.

Answer: (B)

A motion for extension of time is a request to extend deadlines for filing or responding in a legal matter. It is typically grounded on good cause, such as the issue being more complex than anticipated, a large volume of material to review, the need to gather or verify additional facts, ongoing discovery, or scheduling conflicts that prevent timely preparation. Courts weigh whether granting more time is fair and won’t unduly prejudice the other side, and whether the delay serves a legitimate need rather than simply delaying the proceedings.

The idea of shortening deadlines—making deadlines tighter—fits a different purpose and would not describe an extension. A motion to compel discovery is a separate procedural tool used to force the other party to produce information. A motion for reconsideration is used to revisit a court’s prior ruling, not to adjust deadlines.