Legal Procedure

Status Quo Order

A court order requiring both spouses to maintain current financial and custody arrangements during divorce proceedings.

Understanding Status Quo Order

Status quo orders prevent either spouse from making drastic changes while the divorce is pending. This can mean keeping children in the same school, maintaining insurance coverage, paying regular household bills, and not selling or hiding assets. Many states issue automatic status quo orders when a divorce is filed. Violations can lead to contempt of court charges and negative inferences at trial.

Real-World Examples

The status quo order prevented either spouse from canceling health insurance or closing joint bank accounts.

Related Terms

Provisional Orders

Temporary court orders that govern custody, support, and property use while a divorce is pending.

Temporary Orders

Court orders that establish interim rules for custody, support, and property during the divorce process.

Related Guides

Temporary Orders During Divorce →

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This definition is provided for educational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Divorce laws and terminology may vary by state and jurisdiction.

Always consult a licensed attorney in your area for advice specific to your situation.