What must a judge consider when evaluating a request for an extension of appeals?

When evaluating a request for an extension of appeals, a judge must give careful consideration to the presence of reasonable grounds for the appeal. This involves assessing whether there are valid and justifiable reasons for extending the time frame in which an appeal can be made. The party requesting the extension must demonstrate that there are specific factors or circumstances that warrant the additional time, such as new evidence coming to light, procedural complications, or other legitimate barriers that may have prevented a timely filing.

This requirement ensures that the appeals process maintains its integrity, as the judge needs to ensure that extensions are not granted arbitrarily but rather are based on a solid foundation of reasoning. The focus on reasonable grounds reflects the court's commitment to fairness and the pursuit of justice within established legal frameworks.