What is a court order?

A court order is specifically defined as a legal document issued by a judge that commands or prohibits certain actions. It serves as a formal directive that holds legal authority, outlining decision-making by the judicial system in relation to a case. The issuance of a court order follows due process, ensuring that the legal rights of the parties involved are respected and adhered to.

This document may address various matters, such as custody cases, financial obligations, or restraining orders, depending on the context of the legal proceedings. As a legally binding order, failure to comply can result in penalties or further legal consequences.

In contrast, other options provided do not hold the same legal weight. A generic request made by a legal professional lacks the formal authority and specificity of a court order. An informal agreement between two parties does not have judicial endorsement and is not enforceable like a court order. A notification of a trial date, while important to the legal process, does not carry the same implications as a decision rendered by a judge and does not dictate actions as a court order does.