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 Missouri, a Temporary Restraining Order (TRO) is a legal measure used to provide immediate but short-term protection to individuals or entities by ordering another party to cease or continue certain actions. It is often used in situations where immediate harm might occur without court intervention. The TRO is designed to maintain the status quo until a formal hearing can be held for a preliminary injunction, which may last for the duration of a lawsuit. To obtain a TRO in Missouri, the party seeking the order must file a petition with the court, often accompanied by an affidavit detailing the need for immediate relief. The court may issue a TRO without notifying the other party if it deems that giving notice would result in harm. However, TROs are typically in effect for a short period, usually not longer than 14 days, unless extended by the court. After issuing a TRO, the court schedules a hearing for a preliminary injunction, where both parties can present their evidence and arguments.