Besides getting married, one of the biggest decisions you can make is getting divorced. Because the choice has significant repercussions, it is normal to feel confused or uncertain. After filing for divorce, it is possible to change your mind under certain circumstances. For more information and to obtain skilled representation, reach out to an experienced York County, PA divorce attorney today.
Is it Possible to Change My Mind After Filing for Divorce?
Yes, it is possible to change your mind after filing for divorce. Deciding to end your marriage is a major decision and feeling unsure of your choice is natural. If you and your spouse reconcile after the papers have already been filed and divorce lawyers have already been hired, it may be a pain but you can stop the process.
It is important to note that you can only stop the process if:
- Both you and your spouse agree in writing, and;
- The final divorce decree has not been signed
If both of the above are true then you can halt the divorce process and remain married.
How Can I Change My Mind?
Regardless of why you decide that you want to stay married, the process is simple. You and your spouse must jointly file a Motion to Dismiss to the court. This document formally asks the court to halt the divorce process and remove the case from their docket.
As long as both you and your spouse agree and submit reasons for wanting the case dismissed, the court will generally abide by your wishes.
What if the Divorce is Already Finalized?
A divorce is officially finalized upon the judge signing the divorce decree or Final Order of Divorce. If you realize that you want to remain married but the judge has already issued the final decree, then unfortunately, there is nothing you can do to reverse the divorce. Your marriage is officially terminated.
Divorce decrees can only be rescinded within 30 days and solely for the purpose of adjusting the terms of the settlement if there is evidence of fraud, misrepresentation, coercion, or another major issue.
If your divorce is finalized but you want to be with your spouse, you will have to get remarried in a legal ceremony.
Can I Pick Up the Divorce Where We Left Off?
Because the decision to end your marriage is a significant one, people may change their minds multiple times over the course of the process. It is important to understand that if you decide to dismiss your divorce case and remain married but later realize that divorce is the right thing to do, you cannot pick up where you left off.
There is no bookmark or placeholder after canceling your divorce case. If you decide that you shouldn’t be together after all, you will have to start the process over again from the beginning including filing the official complaint and negotiating the terms of property division, alimony, child custody, and financial support obligations.
