A preliminary injunction is not available in which type of action?

• A. An action seeking solely money damages
• B. An action seeking real property relief
• C. An action involving criminal investigations
• D. An action for divorce

Answer: (A)

A preliminary injunction is an equitable remedy designed to preserve the rights of the parties and prevent irreparable harm while a case is being decided. It is not appropriate when the action seeks only monetary compensation because money damages at the end of the case is the complete remedy, and there is nothing ongoing to prevent or preserve besides ordering payment after the fact.

In civil actions that involve real property relief or a divorce, the court can issue a preliminary injunction to protect the property, preserve assets, or maintain status quo during the pending proceedings. In contrast, actions that are not civil actions (such as criminal investigations) don’t fit the civil framework where injunctions operate, and thus aren’t the typical vehicle for this remedy. Since the question asks when a preliminary injunction is not available, the scenario where the action seeks solely money damages is the correct limitation, because the injunction would go beyond what a monetary claim requires.