An injunction is a form of judicial relief in which a court issues a court order directing a party to do or refrain from doing a particular act. Unlike monetary damages, an injunction is an equitable remedy designed to prevent harm, preserve the status quo, or compel compliance with legal rights. Courts typically grant injunctions when ordinary legal remedies would be insufficient.

In many common-law jurisdictions, a claimant seeking an injunction must satisfy several practical and equitable criteria. These commonly include:

  • Irreparable harm: showing that the injury cannot be fully remedied by money.
  • Inadequate legal remedy: demonstrating that damages or other relief would be inadequate.
  • Likelihood of success: establishing a reasonable probability of prevailing on the underlying claim (standard varies by type of injunction).
  • Balance of conveniences or equities: weighing hardship to both parties.
  • Public interest: considering wider societal effects of granting relief.

Common types

Injunctions are categorized by duration and purpose. Typical forms include:

  • Temporary restraining orders (TROs): short-term emergency measures to prevent immediate harm.
  • Preliminary or interlocutory injunctions: issued during litigation to maintain the status quo until a final decision.
  • Permanents injunctions: final orders issued after a full hearing, continuing indefinitely or subject to conditions.
  • Prohibitory vs. mandatory: prohibitory injunctions stop conduct; mandatory injunctions require affirmative action.

Historically, injunctions developed in courts of equity (such as the English Court of Chancery) to supplement the remedies available at common law. Modern practice varies by jurisdiction: civil-law systems may offer analogous remedies but use different procedures and terminology.

Enforcement of an injunction can involve contempt proceedings, fines, or other sanctions if a party disobeys the order. Because injunctions can profoundly affect private rights and public interests, appellate review and standards for issuance are often strict. Typical uses include stopping the release of trade secrets, preventing environmental harm, preserving disputed property, and halting infringing activity in intellectual property disputes. For jurisdiction-specific procedures or advice, consult legal counsel.