(a) Trial dates are firm To ensure the prompt disposition of civil cases, the dates assigned for a trial are firm. All parties and their counsel must regard the date set for trial as certain. (b)Motion or application A party seeking a continuance of the date set for trial, whether contested or uncontested or stipulated to by the parties, must make the request for a continuance by a noticed motion or an ex parte application under the rules in chapter 4 of this division, with supporting declarations

(a) In general Unless otherwise ordered or specifically provided by law, all moving and supporting papers must be served and filed in accordance with Code of Civil Procedure section 1005 and, when applicable, the statutes and rules providing for electronic filing and service. (Subd (a) amended effective January 1, 2016; previously amended effective January 1, 2000, and January 1, 2007.) (b) Order shortening time The court, on its own motion or on application for an order shortening time supported

The rules in this chapter govern ex parte applications and orders in civil cases, unless otherwise provided by a statute or a rule. These rules may be referred to as "the ex parte rules." Cal. R. Ct. 3.1200 Rule 3.1200 adopted effective 1/1/2007.