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 North Carolina, a Temporary Restraining Order (TRO) is a legal measure used to provide immediate protection by the court in situations where delay could result in irreparable harm. It is often used in cases of domestic violence, harassment, or where there is a threat to personal safety or property. A TRO is granted without the presence of the party against whom the order is issued and is typically in effect for a short period, usually 10 days, until a full hearing can be held. During the hearing, the court decides whether to replace the TRO with a preliminary injunction, which can last for the duration of the lawsuit. To obtain a TRO in North Carolina, the requesting party must file a complaint and a motion for the TRO, demonstrating immediate harm and the reasons why the status quo must be maintained. The process and requirements for a TRO are outlined in the North Carolina Rules of Civil Procedure, specifically Rule 65.