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Common Questions

What is the purpose of the California CR-126 form?

The California CR-126 form is an application for an extension of time to file a brief in a criminal appeal. When an appellant or respondent needs additional time to prepare their legal documents, this form serves as a formal request to the court. It allows individuals to specify which brief they are requesting an extension for, such as the appellant's opening brief or the respondent's brief. This process ensures that all parties have adequate time to present their arguments effectively.

Who can file the CR-126 form?

Any party involved in a criminal appeal can file the CR-126 form. This includes appellants, who are typically the individuals appealing a decision, as well as respondents, who are the parties responding to the appeal. If you are representing yourself, you may also complete this form without an attorney. However, it is essential to provide accurate information regarding your case, including the relevant court case numbers and the details of your request for an extension.

What information do I need to provide on the CR-126 form?

When completing the CR-126 form, you will need to provide several key pieces of information:

  1. Your name and contact information, including your address and phone number.
  2. The court of appeal case number and the superior court case number.
  3. The specific brief for which you are requesting an extension, along with the current due date and the new requested due date.
  4. Details about any previous extensions you may have received and the reasons for your current request.
  5. A declaration under penalty of perjury affirming the truthfulness of the information provided.

It is also advisable to attach a proof of service, which shows that all parties entitled to receive a copy of the brief have been notified of your application.

How does the court respond to a CR-126 application?

Once the CR-126 form is submitted, the court will review your application. The presiding justice will either grant or deny the request for an extension. If granted, the order will specify the new due date for the brief. If denied, the court will provide the date of the denial. It is important to keep track of these dates, as missing a deadline can have significant consequences for your appeal.

Document Specifications

Fact Name Description
Purpose The California CR-126 form is used to request an extension of time to file a brief in a criminal appeal case.
Governing Laws This form is governed by California Rules of Court, specifically rules 8.50, 8.60, 8.63, and 8.360.
Filing Requirements Applicants must provide information about previous extensions, the last brief filed, and the reasons for the extension request.
Proof of Service A proof of service must accompany the application, ensuring all parties entitled to receive the brief are notified.

Dos and Don'ts

When filling out the California CR 126 form, consider the following guidelines to ensure your application is complete and correct.

  • Do: Clearly state the name of the party requesting the extension at the top of the form.
  • Do: Indicate the specific brief for which you are requesting an extension.
  • Do: Provide accurate dates for the original due date and the requested new due date.
  • Do: Attach a proof of service to confirm that all necessary parties have received a copy of your application.
  • Don't: Leave any sections blank; ensure all required fields are filled out completely.
  • Don't: Forget to sign and date the form before submission.
  • Don't: Submit the application without a clear explanation for the requested extension.
  • Don't: Ignore the rules regarding previous extensions; be truthful about any prior requests.

Misconceptions

Misconceptions about the California CR-126 form can lead to confusion for those navigating the appellate process. Below is a list of common misunderstandings, along with clarifications for each.

  • The CR-126 form is only for criminal cases. While primarily used in criminal appeals, the form can also be relevant in certain civil cases where similar extensions are needed.
  • You cannot request more than one extension. It is possible to request multiple extensions; however, each request must be justified and documented appropriately.
  • The form guarantees that an extension will be granted. Submitting the CR-126 form does not ensure approval. The court reviews each request based on specific criteria.
  • You must have a lawyer to file the CR-126 form. While having legal representation is beneficial, individuals can file the form themselves if they choose to proceed without an attorney.
  • All extensions are the same length. The length of granted extensions can vary. The court considers the reasons provided when determining the duration of the extension.
  • You can submit the CR-126 form without a declaration. A declaration explaining the need for an extension is required. This helps the court understand the circumstances surrounding the request.
  • Previous extensions do not need to be disclosed. It is essential to disclose any prior extensions on the form. This transparency helps the court in its decision-making process.
  • The form does not require proof of service. A proof of service must accompany the CR-126 form, demonstrating that all parties entitled to receive the brief have been notified.
  • Filing the CR-126 form is the last step in the process. After filing, the court may issue an order that can either grant or deny the extension, which is a critical part of the process.

Understanding these misconceptions can help individuals navigate the appellate process more effectively and avoid potential pitfalls.

Documents used along the form

The California CR-126 form is an important document used in the appellate process, particularly for requesting an extension of time to file a brief in criminal cases. Several other forms and documents often accompany it to ensure that the process runs smoothly. Here’s a list of related documents you might encounter.

  • Application for Extension of Time (APP-031): This form allows the applicant to provide a detailed explanation of why an extension is necessary, including any supporting factors.
  • Proof of Service (APP-009): This document confirms that all parties entitled to receive a copy of the brief have been properly notified about the application for an extension.
  • Notice of Appeal (CR-100): This form initiates the appeal process and must be filed to inform the court and the opposing party of the intent to appeal a decision.
  • Appellant's Opening Brief (AOB): This is the primary document submitted by the appellant outlining their arguments and legal reasoning for the appeal.
  • Respondent's Brief (RB): This brief is submitted by the opposing party, addressing the arguments made in the appellant's opening brief.
  • Appellant's Reply Brief (ARB): This document allows the appellant to respond to the arguments presented in the respondent's brief.
  • Clerk's Transcript: This is a compilation of documents from the trial court, including pleadings, motions, and orders, which the appellate court reviews.
  • Reporter's Transcript: This transcript contains the verbatim record of the trial proceedings, crucial for understanding the context of the appeal.
  • Augmentation Request: This document requests the addition of further evidence or materials to the record for the appellate court's consideration.

Understanding these forms and their purposes can help streamline the appellate process. Each document plays a vital role in ensuring that your appeal is heard and considered fairly.