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 Oklahoma, a Temporary Restraining Order (TRO) is a legal measure used to provide immediate but short-term protection by a court to prevent irreparable harm. It is often issued without notice to the other party (ex parte) and without a hearing, based on a written affidavit or complaint demonstrating immediate harm. The TRO is designed to maintain the status quo until a formal hearing can be held for a temporary injunction, which may last for the duration of a lawsuit. The TRO typically expires after a set period, usually 10 days, unless extended by the court. During the subsequent hearing for a temporary injunction, both parties have the opportunity to present evidence and argue their case. Oklahoma state statutes and rules of civil procedure outline the specific requirements and processes for obtaining a TRO and converting it into a temporary injunction.