What is the legal term for a court order that prohibits a party from doing something?

The legal term for a court order that prohibits a party from doing something is an injunction. This type of order is commonly issued by courts to prevent a party from taking specific actions that could cause harm or violate the rights of another party. Injunctions can be temporary (often referred to as preliminary injunctions) or permanent, depending on the circumstances of the case and the desired outcome.

Injunctions are critical in legal disputes as they provide a means to maintain the status quo and prevent irreversible harm while the legal issues are resolved. For example, in cases involving property disputes or cases where an individual's rights might be violated, a court may issue an injunction to stop a party from engaging in certain activities.

The other terms listed do not refer to prohibitory court orders. A subpoena is a legal document that orders an individual to appear in court or produce evidence. A writ refers to a formal written order issued by a court, but it encompasses a broader range of directives beyond just prohibitions. Liability refers to legal responsibility for one's actions or omissions, particularly in the context of civil law, rather than a court order.