During divorce proceedings, a legal mechanism exists to address immediate needs and maintain stability while the case is pending a final resolution. This mechanism provides court-mandated directives designed to govern aspects such as child custody, visitation schedules, spousal support, child support, and the use of marital assets. For instance, these directives might outline a parenting schedule that ensures both parents have regular contact with their children, or they could stipulate that one spouse receive financial support to cover living expenses.
These measures are vital because divorce cases can take months, or even years, to finalize. Without them, significant disruption and hardship could occur. They prevent unilateral actions that could prejudice the rights of either party, such as one spouse emptying a bank account or relocating with the children without consent. Historically, such orders were less common, leading to situations where one party had a distinct advantage throughout the proceedings. The implementation of these directives ensures a level playing field and protects vulnerable parties during a vulnerable time.
