Temporary orders are the orders a court may make effective from the time a lawsuit for divorce is filed until it is resolved and the divorce decree is signed by the court. These orders are generally designed to preserve the status quo (current status) of the spouses’ marital property, finances, and children, and may include obligations to pay temporary child support, pay temporary spousal support, and provide for child custody and visitation arrangements. Temporary orders may also prohibit the spouses from selling or transferring significant marital or community property assets. If there are any allegations of family or domestic violence or abuse, the court may issue a stay-away order of protection restricting the spouses’ physical proximity to each other and the nature and means of their communications with each other.

Laws regarding the subjects and processes for temporary orders vary from state to state and are usually located in a state’s statutes—often in the family code or domestic relations code.

In North Dakota, temporary orders can be issued by the court during a divorce proceeding to maintain the status quo until the final divorce decree is entered. These orders can address various issues such as child custody and visitation, temporary child support and spousal support, and the use and distribution of property. North Dakota law allows for these orders to ensure that children are cared for, bills are paid, and assets are not wasted or dissipated during the divorce process. Additionally, if there are allegations of domestic violence, the court may issue protective orders to ensure the safety of the parties involved. The specific procedures and requirements for obtaining temporary orders are outlined in the North Dakota Century Code, particularly within the chapters dealing with domestic relations and family law. It is important for individuals going through a divorce to consult with an attorney to understand their rights and the process for obtaining temporary orders in North Dakota.