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 Colorado, a temporary restraining order (TRO) is a legal measure used to prevent immediate harm by maintaining the status quo until a more comprehensive hearing can take place. It is often used in situations involving domestic violence, stalking, sexual assault, or imminent threats of harm. To obtain a TRO, an individual must file a motion with the court, typically providing evidence of the harm or threat they are facing. The court may issue a TRO without the presence of the other party (ex parte) if it deems that the situation is urgent. The TRO is generally short-term and will be followed by a hearing for a more permanent order, such as a temporary or permanent injunction. The subsequent hearing is usually scheduled within 14 days, during which the court will consider more extensive evidence and decide whether to extend the protections provided by the TRO.