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 Tennessee, 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 maintain the status quo until a formal hearing can be held. The TRO can be issued in various situations, such as cases of domestic violence, harassment, or when immediate and irreparable injury, loss, or damage is likely to occur without protection. To obtain a TRO, the requesting party must file a motion along with a sworn statement detailing the need for such an order. The court then decides whether to grant the TRO based on the evidence presented. If granted, the TRO is typically in effect for a short period, usually up to 15 days, until the court schedules a hearing for a preliminary injunction, which may last for the duration of the lawsuit if approved. It's important to note that violating a TRO can result in legal penalties, including contempt of court charges. Individuals seeking a TRO should consult with an attorney to ensure proper legal procedure is followed and to effectively present their case.