The study was based on a sample of temporary restraining orders issued during the first 9 months of 1991 in two jurisdictions in the same State. The sample was limited to cases involving female abuse victims, and interviews were completed with 355 women who filed petitions for temporary restraining orders based on alleged abuse by male partners (spouses, former spouses, or boyfriends). Forms completed by women who received temporary restraining orders indicated multiple types of abusive behavior: severe violence, other violent acts, threats of violence or property damage, and psychological abuse. Many women thought the temporary restraining order was helpful in documenting the occurrence of abuse. Of women who obtained temporary restraining orders, 40 percent did not return to court to request permanent restraiing orders. Most men and women reported contact during the first 3 months following a temporary restraining order, and over half of the women reported unwanted contacts. The process of obtaining a temporary restraining order was easier than the process of obtaining a permanent restraining order. Calls to the police due to restraining order violations were high, but arrest was rare. Sixty percent of the women reported reabuse by the man named in the temporary restraining order, with psychological abuse being the most prevalent type of reabuse. Having a permanent restraining order did not appear to deter most types of abuse. Predictors of continued abuse are identified, and enforcement aspects of temporary restraining orders are discussed. 3 notes, 2 tables, and 4 figures