Temporary Orders Lawyer San Diego

When going through a divorce or custody battle in San Diego, some issues can’t wait for a final judgment. Questions about who stays in the home, who pays the bills, or how children are cared for can become urgent well before the case is resolved. That’s where temporary orders come in. These court-issued directives are designed to provide short-term solutions while your family law case is pending.

At Enright Family Law, we represent modern families navigating separation, parenting challenges, and financial transitions. Our approach to temporary orders is both strategic and sensitive—helping you gain stability during uncertain times. With offices in San Diego and Bellevue, we are happy to help you with your family law case.

What Are Temporary Orders?

Temporary orders are legal rulings made by a family court judge to address immediate concerns in a pending family law matter. These orders are “temporary” because they remain in effect only until the final resolution of the case. They are commonly requested early in divorce, legal separation, or custody proceedings and serve to protect the rights, finances, and well-being of all parties—especially children.

In San Diego, temporary orders can address:

• Child custody and visitation
• Child support
• Spousal support
• Exclusive use of the family residence
• Responsibility for debts and expenses
• Restraining orders or no-contact orders
• Temporary attorney’s fees and legal costs

If you are facing a high-stakes transition, a temporary orders lawyer ensures you’re protected from day one.

Why Temporary Orders Matter

Divorce and separation can take months—or even years—to finalize. During that time, both parties still need legal clarity on day-to-day issues. Temporary orders:

• Prevent confusion and conflict over parenting schedules
• Ensure children are safe and cared for
• Secure necessary financial support for one or both parties
• Establish legal boundaries between parties in high-conflict cases
• Set a precedent that can influence final orders

For many families, temporary orders are a critical first step in building stability and moving forward with structure and support.

When Should You Request Temporary Orders?

You can request temporary orders at the beginning of your case—or at any point before a final judgment is entered. You may need temporary orders if:

• One parent is withholding access to the children
• A spouse has moved out and stopped paying shared bills
• There is a risk of financial loss or property being hidden or sold
• There is emotional or physical abuse
• You need to secure temporary spousal support or child support
• You want legal permission to stay in the family home

In each of these situations, acting early with the help of a knowledgeable attorney can help you prevent escalation and protect your rights.

The Process of Requesting Temporary Orders in San Diego

Step 1: File a Request for Order (RFO)

To initiate the process, your attorney files a Request for Order (RFO) with the San Diego Superior Court. This includes the forms needed to tell the court what orders you are seeking and why.

Step 2: Submit Declarations and Evidence

Along with your request, you’ll submit written declarations (sworn statements) explaining the facts and circumstances of your case. Supporting documents such as financial records, text messages, or parenting calendars may also be submitted as evidence.

Step 3: Serve the Other Party

The other party must be served with a copy of the RFO and given the opportunity to respond. They will also submit their own declaration and documentation if they contest your request.

Step 4: Attend a Court Hearing

Both sides will appear before a judge, who will consider the evidence and issue temporary orders. These hearings are often brief but highly important, as the judge’s decision can affect the course of your case.

At Enright Family Law, we prepare our clients thoroughly for these hearings—making sure their voice is heard and their rights are fully represented.

Temporary Custody and Visitation Orders

When children are involved, temporary custody and visitation orders are often the most urgent. These orders determine:

• Where the children will live while the case is pending
• A visitation schedule for the non-custodial parent
• Guidelines for communication, transportation, and decision-making
• Protection from parental alienation or unsafe environments

The court’s priority is always the best interest of the child, and the temporary arrangement often sets the tone for the final parenting plan.

Temporary Child and Spousal Support

Financial insecurity is one of the top stressors in a separation. Temporary support orders ensure that:

• Children’s basic needs are met
• One spouse isn’t unfairly burdened with all household expenses
• Both parties have financial support to maintain stability

California uses state guidelines to calculate child support, and spousal support is determined based on each party’s income, expenses, and standard of living during the marriage. We help you present a full and accurate picture of your financial situation so the court can issue a fair order.

Exclusive Use of the Home and Property

It’s common for one party to ask the court to grant them exclusive use of the family home or specific property, especially when remaining in close quarters is emotionally or physically unsafe. The court may issue temporary orders:

• Granting one spouse the right to remain in the home
• Dividing responsibility for mortgage, rent, and utilities
• Prohibiting either party from selling or transferring marital assets

These decisions often influence final property settlements, so legal guidance is crucial.

Emergency Orders and Domestic Violence

In cases involving domestic violence, abuse, or stalking, you may seek a temporary restraining order (TRO). These orders provide:

• Immediate protection from contact or harassment
• Custody and support provisions
• Exclusive use of the home and vehicle
• Stay-away zones for school, work, or daycare

Our firm acts quickly and discreetly to file emergency orders that prioritize your safety and the safety of your children.

Why Modern Families Trust Enright Family Law

Today’s families are diverse, dynamic, and often don’t fit traditional models. We serve:

• Parents who were never married
• LGBTQ+ families and co-parents
• Blended families with complex household arrangements
• Professionals with nontraditional work schedules or assets
• Families navigating relocation, long-distance parenting, or third-party care

At Enright Family Law, we combine deep legal knowledge with modern understanding to craft solutions that reflect your life and your values.

How We Can Help

At Enright Family Law, we help modern families in San Diego get the temporary legal protection they need during the most uncertain phases of separation and divorce. Whether you’re seeking support, safety, or structure, we guide you through the process with experience, empathy, and results-driven advocacy.

We help you:

• Prepare and file Requests for Order (RFO)
• Draft compelling declarations and gather supporting evidence
• Represent you at temporary order hearings
• Address custody, support, property, and safety concerns
• Modify or extend temporary orders as needed

Contact Enright Family Law today to schedule a consultation with a trusted temporary orders lawyer in San Diego. We’re here to protect your rights and bring structure to your next steps—right from the start.