The moment parties separate, there become immediate issues of custody and support.  Who takes the kids?  Who stays in the house?  How will the bills be paid?  A judge may not actually decide these issues for many months or even years.  It is necessary to establish a “status quo” for the duration of the divorce case.  Many times, the parties are civil enough to come to a temporary understanding, but when they cannot, a judge or hearing officer will conduct a “Temporary Needs Hearing” to temporarily establish custody, visitation, exclusive use and possession of the marital residence, child and spousal support and even attorney fees.