Which legal term describes a court order that prohibits a person or entity from performing a specific act?

An injunction is a legal term that refers to a court order requiring a person or entity to act or refrain from acting in a certain way. This order is often used to prevent harm or to maintain the status quo in legal disputes. For example, a court may issue an injunction to prohibit an individual from engaging in activities that would cause irreparable harm to another party.

Injunctions can be temporary or permanent and serve as a powerful tool in legal proceedings, particularly in cases involving property disputes, trademark infringements, or family law matters. The essence of an injunction is its ability to compel compliance with the law or court directives, thereby protecting the rights of individuals and the public.

Understanding this concept is crucial in legal contexts, as it represents the judicial system's role in providing remedies to prevent or curb harmful actions before any further damage occurs.