ABSTRACT
The purpose of the temporary restraining order is to freeze everything in status quo and thus prevent any changes of position by the parties that might detrimentally affect the relief sought by the plaintiff in the event the plaintiff was to eventually win. An important step in an equity case, whether or not a temporary restraining order has been issued, is that the plaintiff normally seeks a preliminary injunction. A preliminary injunction, like a temporary restraining order, is designed to freeze things as they are until such time as a full trial can be held. After a full trial on the merits is eventually held, the court must decide whether or not to issue an injunction. The injunction is the final order in such an equity proceeding, and it directs the defendant to do or not do a specific thing or things for the never-ending future. One other special item in equity proceedings should be mentioned, the doctrine of laches.
