Can I Stop or Undo My Illinois Divorce?

 Posted on May 26, 2025 in Divorce

Filing for divorce is a monumental decision, and some people think they have made up their minds only to later discover that they are having second thoughts. What happens if you regret the decision to get divorced, not just emotionally, but legally? Can you stop the process once it starts? Can you undo a divorce after it is finalized?

In Illinois, the answer depends on where you are in the legal process. Timing, paperwork, and cooperation between spouses all play a role. A trained Illinois divorce attorney and mediator — especially one at The Law Offices of Curtis Bennett Ross, L.L.C. with financial insight and decades of family law experience — can help you navigate the possibilities.

Can You Stop a Divorce Before It Is Finalized? 

If the divorce is still in progress and has not been finalized by the judge, it is entirely possible to stop the process. The spouse who filed the petition can choose to dismiss the case voluntarily. If both spouses now want to remain married, this is typically a straightforward procedure.

If only one spouse has changed their mind, the path forward is more complicated. Illinois allows for no-fault divorce, meaning one spouse can proceed even if the other objects. A divorce judge does not require both parties to agree to finalize a divorce.

The key is timing. Once the case has moved forward with service of process, hearings, or a settlement conference, simply "taking it back" becomes harder. That is why it is critical to act quickly if you are reconsidering your decision.

Can You Undo a Divorce If the Divorce Is Already Finalized?

Undoing a finalized divorce is not the same as hitting an "undo" button. If a judge has already entered a judgment of dissolution, the divorce is legally complete. You cannot reverse that order because you changed your mind.

However, in rare cases, a motion to vacate or reopen the judgment may be possible. However, this is only done in situations based on fraud, procedural error, or lack of proper notice. These motions are subject to strict deadlines and require persuasive legal justification. They are not designed for remorse.

If two people reconcile after divorce and wish to be married again, they must remarry. There is no legal mechanism in Illinois to simply "erase" a completed divorce.

Why Legal Guidance Matters Before, During, and After Your Divorce

Divorce is not just personal. It is a legal process that affects your finances, your children, and your rights. If you are unsure about moving forward, or if you believe you acted too quickly, a lawyer trained in mediation and financial planning can help you explore your options without rushing into irreversible decisions.

With over 30 years of experience, our trusted attorney can walk you through both the emotional and procedural dimensions of this process, offering alternatives such as legal separation, postnuptial agreements, or temporary dismissal.

Contact a Skokie, IL Divorce Attorney Today

If you are considering whether to pause your divorce, a Rolling Meadows, IL divorce lawyer at The Law Offices of Curtis Bennett Ross, L.L.C. can help you understand what is possible and realistic. Call 312-984-1514 today to request a free limited consultation.