You don't need an attorney to request a continuance in a child custody case.  It would be advisable to contact the court clerk to find out which form(s) to file to request the continuance and the related procedures including how far in advance of the hearing you need to request your continuance and file the appropriate forms and serve the opposing party.  The judge will determine whether or not a continuance is granted or denied and will look at the reason you are requesting a continuance.  If the continuance is granted, the court's schedule (calendar) will determine the date for the next court appearance in your child custody case.  If you don't comply with the filing deadline and/or procedures for filing the request for a continuance, the request for a continuance will be denied.