A temporary restraining order (TRO) is a court order requiring the parties to whom it is addressed not to engage in certain activity, or to continue to engage in certain activity, and is usually designed to maintain the current state of things (the status quo) until the court has the opportunity to hear a more complete presentation of the evidence—usually during an application for a temporary injunction that will remain in place while the lawsuit is pending.

In California, a Temporary Restraining Order (TRO) is a short-term court order issued to prevent immediate harm by requiring someone to stop doing something or to do something until a more formal hearing can be held. Typically, TROs are used in situations involving domestic violence, harassment, stalking, or elder abuse, but they can also apply in various civil litigation contexts to preserve the status quo. To obtain a TRO, the requesting party must convince the court that there is a likelihood of immediate harm and that there is a reasonable probability they will prevail on the merits of the case. The TRO can be granted without the presence of the other party (ex parte), but it is generally limited in duration, often lasting only until the date of the scheduled hearing for a preliminary injunction, which may extend the order's effect for the duration of the lawsuit or until further order of the court. The process and requirements for obtaining a TRO are governed by the California Code of Civil Procedure, and individuals seeking a TRO are often advised to consult with an attorney to navigate the legal complexities involved.