A crucial hearing in the Aurora theater shooting case has been postponed until Tuesday, and has gained added significance.

The judge, Carlos Samour, was set to decide Friday whether to accept a plea from suspect James Holmes of not guilty by reason of insanity, but first he would have to advise Holmes of the consequences of pleading insanity.

When he settled the advisement dispute on Wednesday by ruling that Colorado’s laws for insanity pleas are constitutional, he also offered defense attorneys the option of delaying Friday’s hearing so that they could have more time to read through his order.

Attorneys for Holmes on Thursday asked for a delay until Tuesday. In addition to needing more time to read Samour’s order, they said they’re also working to meet a deadline on Monday, the last day they can file motions not related to the death penalty.

Prosecutors, in a separate filing Thursday, did not object to a delay as long as the hearing took on another weighty subject: Whether the notebook Holmes mailed to his psychiatrist prior to the shooting should be evidence in the case.

Prosecutors say the notebook could provide key insight into the planning and motives behind the shooting and Holmes’ mental state. Holmes’ lawyers have argued the notebook is protected by doctor-patient confidentiality. But that confidentiality would be somewhat waived if Holmes enters an insanity plea. Samour, in an order postponing the hearing, said he is “inclined to grant the People’s request to add the waiver issue to the June 4 hearing.” However, he also gave the defense a chance to object.

Holmes is charged with murder, attempted murder and other offenses in connection with the July 20 attack on the Century Aurora 16 movie theater. The attack killed 12 people and wounded 58 others by gunfire.