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 Massachusetts, a Temporary Restraining Order (TRO) is a legal measure used to provide immediate protection from harm by ordering a party to refrain from certain actions or to maintain the status quo until a more formal hearing can be conducted. TROs are commonly used in situations involving domestic violence, harassment, or where immediate harm is anticipated. To obtain a TRO, an individual must file a request with the court, often including a sworn affidavit detailing the need for immediate protection. The court may issue a TRO without the presence of the other party (ex parte) if it deems that there is a substantial likelihood of immediate danger or harm. The TRO is typically in effect for a short period, usually 10 days, until a hearing can be held for a preliminary injunction, which may last for the duration of the lawsuit or until further order of the court. Violation of a TRO can result in criminal charges and is enforceable by law enforcement agencies.