Can a motion for a continuance be made in the absence of the opposing party?

There is, however, no such showing in the case at bench, and the mere absence of a party standing alone is insufficient to compel a court to grant a continuance. Even the alleged illness and inability of the defendants to attend the trial has been held insufficient grounds for reversal where the trial court denied a request for a continuance in the absence of supporting affidavits. (Nahas v. Nahhas, 135 Cal.App.2d 440, 287 P.2d 381.) Code of Civil Procedure section 594 provides that a trial may be held in the absence of the adverse party 'unless the court, for good cause, otherwise directs.'