Irreparable harm

What irreparable harm means

Put simply, irreparable harm is part of the working vocabulary of a civil case. The short definition above covers the usual meaning. Still, a specific rule, statute or contract can give it a narrower meaning. For that reason, check how it is used in your own documents.

Where irreparable harm comes up

For example, the term appears in these procedures:

• Motion for a Temporary Restraining Order (TRO) (Fed. R. Civ. P. 65(b)): an emergency request for a short-term order, sometimes without notice to the other side, to prevent immediate and irreparable harm.

How to research the term

To research irreparable harm, begin with the rule, statute or contract where the word is used. Each one can give it a slightly different meaning. Then compare that text with how courts in your area have applied it. Also check the local rules of your court, since they can add requirements. If your case is in state court, the state rules control. So start with our state procedures guide to find them. In the end, always confirm that the source you rely on is current.

You can read the official rule text online for free.

Related legal terms

• Temporary restraining order: a short-term emergency order to prevent immediate and irreparable harm before a hearing can be held.
• Bond: security posted with the court, such as for an injunction or to stay enforcement of a judgment.
• Verified complaint: a complaint whose allegations are sworn to or declared true under penalty of perjury.

Why precise terms matter

Courts read legal terms closely. As a result, knowing the exact meaning of a word helps you follow orders, rules and filings. Each glossary entry on Lawtopolis is short on purpose and links to the pages where the term is used.