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Equitable Remedies

Temporary Restraining Order

TRO

An emergency court order, often issued without notice to the opposing party, that lasts only days until a preliminary injunction hearing.

Governing rule: Fed. R. Civ. P. 65(b)

Plain-English definition

A TRO is the most urgent form of injunctive relief. It can be issued ex parte (without giving the other side notice or a chance to respond) when irreparable injury would otherwise occur before the opposing party can be heard. It typically lasts only 14 days and must be followed by a noticed preliminary-injunction hearing.

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Not legal advice. Definitions are for general reference. Consult an attorney before relying on any term in a real case.