What is the purpose of a temporary custody order?

The purpose of a temporary custody order is to determine custody until a final decision is made. This order is typically issued during divorce or custody proceedings and serves to provide immediate and necessary arrangements for the care and living situation of the children involved while the court deliberates on the case. It ensures that children have a stable environment and that their needs are addressed without delay, rather than waiting for the often lengthy court processes to conclude.

Unlike final custody arrangements, which are intended to be permanent, a temporary order is meant solely to bridge the gap between the initial custody discussions and the eventual ruling. This allows the court to manage the children's welfare actively in the interim, ensuring their best interests are prioritized while legal proceedings unfold. Other answers focus on finality or enforcement, which do not align with the intended short-term function of a temporary custody order.