NOTES TO RULE 56
NOTES OF ADVISORY COMMITTEE ON RULES - 1944
1. The first sentence of this rule is substantially the same as Rule 77(a) of the Federal Rules of Civil Procedure (28 U.S.C., Appendix), except that it is applicable to circuit courts of appeals as well as to district courts.
2. In connection with this rule, see 28 U.S.C. (former) 14 (Monthly adjournments for trial of criminal causes) and § 15 (now 141) (Special terms). These sections "indicate a policy of avoiding the hardships consequent upon a closing of the court during vacations," Abbott v. Brown, 241 U.S. 606, 611.
3. The second sentence of the rule is identical with the first sentence of Rule 77(c) of the Federal Rules of Civil Procedure (28 U.S.C., Appendix).
4. The term "legal holidays" includes Federal holidays as well as holidays prescribed by the laws of the State where the clerk's office is located.
NOTES OF ADVISORY COMMITTEE ON RULES - 2002 AMENDMENT
The language of Rule 56 has been amended as part of the general restyling of the Criminal Rules to make them more easily understood and to make style and terminology consistent throughout the rules. These changes are intended to be stylistic only.
NOTES OF ADVISORY COMMITTEE ON RULES - 1988 AMENDMENT
The amendment is technical. No substantive change is intended.
NOTES OF ADVISORY COMMITTEE ON RULES - 1971 AMENDMENT
The amendment adds Columbus Day to the list of legal holidays. See the Note accompanying the amendment of Rule 45(a).
NOTES OF ADVISORY COMMITTEE ON RULES - 1968 AMENDMENT
The provisions relating to courts of appeals are included in Rule 47 of the Federal Rules of Appellate Procedure.
NOTES OF ADVISORY COMMITTEE ON RULES - 1966 AMENDMENT
The change is in conformity with the changes made in Rule 45. See the similar changes in Civil Rule 77(c) made effective July 1, 1963.
NOTES OF ADVISORY COMMITTEE ON RULES - 1948 AMENDMENT
To incorporate nomenclature provided for by Revised Title 28, U.S.C. § 43(a).