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 South Dakota, a Temporary Restraining Order (TRO) is a legal measure used to provide immediate protection by ordering an individual or entity to either refrain from specific acts or to continue performing certain actions, typically to preserve the status quo. The purpose of a TRO is to prevent irreparable harm or injustice that could occur before a more comprehensive hearing can be held. TROs are often used in situations involving domestic violence, harassment, or other urgent circumstances where immediate intervention is necessary. The process for obtaining a TRO in South Dakota involves filing a petition with the court, and if the court deems it necessary, it can issue the TRO without the presence of the other party (ex parte). This order is temporary and typically lasts until the court can hold a hearing for a preliminary injunction, which may last for the duration of the legal proceedings. State statutes and rules of civil procedure outline the specific requirements and processes for obtaining a TRO in South Dakota.