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Proposed Order
A proposed order is a draft of a court order that one side writes and gives to the judge, asking the judge to sign it and make it official.
What it actually is
It is a document submitted by a party after a motion or hearing, outlining what the party believes the court should decide. The judge reviews it, may change it, and then either signs it (making it a binding order) or rejects it. It appears in the case file as a proposed version, not yet effective.
Why it matters in your case
It matters because the party that prepares the proposed order can influence the wording and details of the final decision, but the judge has full authority to accept, modify, or reject it. Failing to submit a proper proposed order can delay the case or result in an order that does not reflect your position.
The common misunderstanding
Many people mistakenly think a proposed order is already a court order, but it is only a suggestion until the judge signs it. Another common error is assuming the judge must sign it as written, when in fact the judge can change it entirely.
Get the actual rule
Definitions are orientation; rules are authority
This page explains the concept. When it matters to your case, read the rule that governs it in your court — we hold Texas, federal and Washington court rules word for word, and every state's official resources are on the state pages. If someone cites a case at you, check that it exists first.
Related
Terms that travel with this one
General explanation, not legal advice, and not specific to any state — procedures and deadlines vary by jurisdiction and court. If you can get a lawyer or free legal aid, do: every real option.