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 Oregon, a temporary restraining order (TRO) is a legal measure used to prevent immediate harm by temporarily prohibiting certain actions by a party or parties until a more formal hearing can be held. TROs are often used in situations involving domestic violence, stalking, or harassment, but can also apply to various civil disputes. To obtain a TRO, an individual must file a petition with the court, typically demonstrating that irreparable harm will occur without the protection of the order. The court may issue a TRO without the other party being present (ex parte) if the situation is urgent. After the TRO is issued, a hearing is usually scheduled within a short period, often 10 to 21 days, where both parties can present their evidence and arguments. If the court finds it necessary, it may then grant a preliminary injunction, which maintains the restraints until the resolution of the case or further order of the court.