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 Ohio, a Temporary Restraining Order (TRO) is a legal measure used to provide immediate relief from harm by temporarily preventing an individual or entity from taking certain actions. It is often granted without the presence of the party against whom the order is directed and is designed to preserve the status quo until a formal hearing can be held. To obtain a TRO, the requesting party must file a motion along with a complaint, demonstrating that immediate and irreparable injury, loss, or damage will result without the TRO. The court then decides whether to issue the TRO based on the evidence presented. If granted, the TRO is typically in effect for a short period, usually not exceeding 14 days, as per Ohio Rules of Civil Procedure. This allows time for the court to schedule a hearing for a preliminary injunction, which may last for the duration of the lawsuit if granted. The respondent has the right to contest the TRO at the subsequent hearing. It's important to note that TROs are subject to specific procedural requirements and individuals seeking or affected by a TRO may benefit from consulting with an attorney to navigate the legal process.