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 Minnesota, a Temporary Restraining Order (TRO) is a legal measure used to prevent immediate harm by temporarily prohibiting an individual or entity from taking certain actions. It is often used in situations involving domestic abuse, harassment, or other emergencies where immediate intervention is necessary to protect an individual or preserve the status quo. To obtain a TRO, a party must file a petition with the court, and the court must believe that there is a substantial likelihood of immediate and irreparable harm if the TRO is not granted. A TRO can be issued without the other party being present (ex parte) and is typically in effect until a hearing can be held for a more permanent order, such as a temporary injunction. The duration of a TRO in Minnesota is usually limited to a specific period, often up to 14 days, but can be extended under certain circumstances. The subsequent hearing for a temporary injunction provides both parties the opportunity to present more detailed evidence and arguments regarding the need for continuing the restraints put in place by the TRO.