Facing a tribunal hearing can be stressful for tenants in the Northwest Territories. If you need more time to gather evidence, arrange legal advice, or sort out repairs or rent issues, asking for an adjournment is often possible. This guide explains what an adjournment is, common reasons tribunals may grant one, which steps to follow in the Northwest Territories, and how to prepare a clear, respectful request. You’ll find practical examples, a checklist of documents to bring, and tips on what to say if the adjournment is denied so you can protect your rights and present your case fairly.
What is an adjournment?
An adjournment temporarily delays a scheduled tribunal hearing so one or more parties have more time to prepare, obtain evidence, or secure representation. Tribunals expect requests to be reasonable, timely, and supported by documents or facts when possible.
When tribunals may grant an adjournment
- Serious illness or medical emergency for you or a key witness that prevents attendance.
- Late receipt of important documents or evidence that could not reasonably be obtained before the hearing date.
- Ongoing attempts to get legal advice or representation and a short, reasonable delay is needed.
- Unresolved urgent repairs or safety issues that are central to the dispute and need time to document or fix.
- Overlapping hearings, unexpected travel issues, or other serious scheduling conflicts that cannot be fixed by phone.
How to ask for an adjournment in the Northwest Territories
Start by checking the Residential Tenancies Office pages for local procedures and contact details and note any timelines the tribunal sets for requests (Residential Tenancies Office)[1]. If the tribunal provides a specific request form use that; if not, send a concise written request by the method the tribunal lists (email or mail), include the hearing file number, and explain the reason, supporting documents, and how long you need.
- State the hearing file or application number and the scheduled hearing date.
- Explain the reason for the adjournment and the expected length of delay.
- Attach supporting evidence (medical notes, correspondence, receipts, repair estimates).
- Provide up-to-date contact details and say whether you are available for alternative dates.
Sample wording: "I am the tenant in file #12345. I request an adjournment of the hearing scheduled for June 10 because I am hospitalized and cannot attend. I can provide medical documentation and propose June 24 as an alternate date." Keep the request factual and polite.
What tribunals consider when deciding
Tribunals balance the need for fairness with the need to resolve disputes promptly. They will consider whether the request is timely, whether the reason is persuasive and supported by documents, whether the other party consents, and whether delay would prejudice either party. If the tribunal denies the adjournment, it may still allow limited time to submit evidence or offer a short postponement.
What to bring and prepare
- Copies of any documents you referenced in your request (medical notes, emails showing attempts to get help, repair invoices).
- A copy of your adjournment request and proof of how and when you sent it (email receipts, courier tracking).
- A short written timeline of key events to help the adjudicator understand why more time was needed.
If the adjournment is denied
If the tribunal refuses an adjournment, calmly ask whether you may file limited additional evidence or make a short written submission before the hearing. If you cannot attend, ask whether the tribunal accepts written submissions in your absence and how those should be filed.
Other practical tips
- Be honest and brief; avoid long personal stories in the adjournment request itself.
- If possible, call the tribunal office after sending your request to confirm receipt and next steps.
- Keep copies of everything and note names of any staff you speak with.
If you are also dealing with related tenant problems, see Common Issues Tenants Face and How to Resolve Them for practical next steps and rights, and review your local rights at Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Northwest Territories for Territory-specific rules.
If you need temporary housing options while preparing, consider searching listings to find a short-term solution: Find rental homes across Canada on Houseme.
FAQ
- Can I request an adjournment by phone?
- Yes, you can phone to ask about the process, but you should follow up with a written request or email so the tribunal has a record of the reasons and requested dates.
- How soon should I ask for an adjournment?
- Ask as soon as you know you need more time. Early requests are more likely to be granted than last-minute ones.
- Will I need to prove my reason?
- Provide supporting documents when you can—medical notes, emails, repair bills, or a lawyer’s note help the tribunal assess your request.
How-To
- Identify the hearing file number and the tribunal contact method listed on the Residential Tenancies Office website.
- Prepare a short written request stating the reason, proposed alternate dates, and how long you need.
- Attach or offer supporting documents and proof of how and when you will be available.
- Submit the request by the tribunal’s preferred method and call to confirm receipt if possible.
- If the adjournment is denied, ask about filing written submissions or limited evidence and prepare to present your case on the scheduled date.
Help and Support / Resources
- Residential Tenancies Office (Government of the Northwest Territories)
- Northwest Territories legislation and acts
- NWT Legal Aid Services
