Interim Order Definition and Legal Meaning

On this page, you'll find the legal definition and meaning of Interim Order, written in plain English, along with examples of how it is used.

What is Interim Order?

It is an order passed by the court during the trial where the final order is yet to be passed. Such order is of temporary nature and the party to whom it orders are bound to act according to that order till the final order is passed.

History and Meaning of Interim Order

An Interim Order refers to an order issued by a court during the pendency of the case, when the final order is yet to be passed. It is a temporary order that is binding on the parties until the final order of the case is pronounced. The objective of the interim order is to prevent irreparable harm to a party to the case, and to maintain the status quo until the final decision is made.

Interim orders have a significant impact on the case, as they can determine the outcome of the final decision. They can be issued in any type of case - civil, criminal, or administrative - and can cover a range of issues, from property disputes to family law matters.

Examples of Interim Order

  1. In a divorce case, the wife may file for an interim order seeking maintenance from her husband until the final order of the case is passed.
  2. A company may file for an interim order seeking a stay on a government order that prevents them from conducting business until the final order of the case is pronounced.
  3. An individual may file for an interim order seeking protection from harassment or violence by another person until the final order of the case is passed.

Legal Terms Similar to Interim Order

  1. Injunction: An injunction is a court order that prohibits a person from performing a specific act or requires them to do a specific act. It is typically issued during the pendency of a case, and is enforceable until the final order is passed.
  2. Stay Order: A stay order is a court order that prevents a lower court from proceeding with a case until the higher court has reviewed the case or issued a final order.
  3. Restraining Order: A restraining order is a court order that prohibits a person from engaging in specific conduct, such as contacting a victim or coming within a certain distance of them. It is often used in cases of domestic violence, harassment, or stalking.