Opinion ID: 1667377
Heading Depth: 1
Heading Rank: 11

Heading: Denial of continuance motions

Text: During the trial, Mr. Bowen's counsel made frequent motions for a continuance. The primary reasons given were Mr. Bowen's alleged changes in personality and the accompanying problems that posed for his defense, as well as counsel's limited opportunity to visit with his client immediately before the beginning of the trial because of Mr. Bowen's delayed return from the State Hospital. A motion for a continuance is addressed to the sound discretion of the trial court, and a decision will not be reversed absent an abuse of discretion amounting to a denial of justice. King v. State, 314 Ark. 205, 862 S.W.2d 229 (1993); Gonzales v. State, 303 Ark. 537, 798 S.W.2d 101 (1990); Wilson v. State, 320 Ark. 142, 895 S.W.2d 524 (1995). Mr. Bowen has failed to allege prejudice. Counsel requested a continuance or pause in the proceedings frequently, and despite concerns over the length of the trial, the Trial Court attempted to accommodate counsel on many occasions when he requested more time to consult with his client. We conclude there was no abuse of discretion.