In many divorce and custody cases, the first decisions made by the court are the ones that matter most. Temporary orders set the tone. They decide who stays in the house, who pays the bills, and where the kids sleep while the case is pending.
At Brandi Wolfe Law, we help you take control of that first court appearance so you’re not stuck reacting to your spouse’s requests. If you wait too long, the other side may define the narrative before you get a chance to speak.
What Can Temporary Orders Cover?
Temporary orders can be requested right after a divorce or custody case is filed. These orders are designed to maintain stability until the final judgment is entered.
They often include:
- Temporary custody and visitation schedules
- Temporary child support or spousal support
- Who lives in the marital home
- Who pays the mortgage, utilities, or other bills
- Who uses which vehicles
- Restraining orders or orders to preserve property
- Temporary injunctions to prevent harassment or asset transfers
The judge will look at the facts and try to establish a fair balance—but if your story isn’t clearly told, it’s easy to fall behind fast.
Why Acting Early Matters
Temporary orders often become the unofficial “status quo.” Judges may be reluctant to disrupt a routine that seems to be working. If your initial order gives your spouse primary custody or financial control, it can be harder to shift that later.
We help you:
- Gather documentation that backs your requests
- Prepare for temporary orders hearings
- Respond to emergency motions filed by the other side
- Push for fairness from the start
Is your spouse already making moves behind the scenes? Visit our Contested Divorce page to see how we protect clients who feel outmatched early on.
What If You’ve Already Agreed to Something?
Many people sign off on “temporary” deals to keep the peace or avoid a hearing—only to realize later that those terms are hurting them. We review existing orders and help you decide if it’s time to request a change.
Need support with parenting schedules or shared finances? Read about our approach to Child Custody and Spousal Support for more details.
Don’t Let Temporary Become Permanent
The early stages of a divorce or custody case can shape everything that follows. We help you use that window wisely, so your first step doesn’t lock you into a long-term disadvantage.
Call (210) 571-0400 or schedule your free consultation about temporary orders. The sooner we talk, the more we can do.