In 2025, the Pew Research Center reported that more than 1.8 million Americans had divorced. As of January 2026, Illinois law allows spouses to pause proceedings or dismiss a case entirely under certain conditions.
Divorce is not always a straight path from filing to final judgment. There is room for reconciliation, delays, and procedural pauses, depending on where the case stands and what both spouses want.
If you are having second thoughts or want time to explore your options, speaking with a DeKalb, IL divorce lawyer early can help you understand what steps are still available.
Can You Stop a Divorce After It Has Been Filed in Illinois?
A divorce can usually be stopped if both spouses agree they no longer want to proceed. The case officially begins when one spouse files a Petition for Dissolution of Marriage. Until the court enters a final judgment, the case can often be dismissed voluntarily. This ends the divorce process and leaves the marriage legally intact.