Glossary
Order
A written directive from a court: anything from a routine scheduling order to a final judgment. Court orders carry the force of law; ignoring one can result in contempt of court.
Most things courts do happen via orders. Orders set hearing dates, rule on motions, decide discovery disputes, grant or deny relief. Some orders are huge (a permanent injunction); others are routine (granting a continuance).
If a court order tells you to do something, do it: or move to modify or stay the order before the deadline. Just ignoring an order can lead to contempt sanctions, default judgments, or dismissal of your case.
Orders can usually be appealed only after a final judgment is entered, though some "interlocutory" orders (like preliminary injunctions) can be appealed earlier.