Have You Filed for Divorce While Considering a Reconciliation?

It is not uncommon for couples to file for a divorce, only to decide to reconcile at a later date. At the Women’s Divorce & Family Law Group, we support you in making whatever decision seems best in your situation. However, before initiating a reconciliation or taking other actions that could impact your current divorce proceedings, there are some important issues to consider. 

Considering a Reconciliation With Your Spouse?

Getting a divorce can impact you for years into the future and is something that should never be approached hastily. As experienced Chicago divorce attorneys, we work with our clients, providing the legal guidance and support they need to make the best decision based on their individual needs. In some cases, clients who initially seemed determined to get a divorce end up changing their minds. 

This can be a result of loneliness, fear of being single again, or nostalgia for the good times that once existed in the marriage. In these cases, the desire to reconcile is likely to eventually pass. If you do feel that giving your marriage another shot is the right decision, Marriage.com offers the following suggestions: 

• Look back on your reasons for initially seeking a divorce and make sure any important issues have been addressed;
• Consider whether you to disclose something that occurred during the separation, such as an affair;
• Make note of how each of you changed since filing for divorce and how these changes can benefit your relationship;
• Consider the behaviors that you can implement in your relationship to help prevent future marital problems. 

Ramifications of Reconciling Before Your Divorce is FInalized

Before deciding on a marital reconciliation, consider the legal ramifications, as well: 

• If the reconciliation does not work out, you will not be able to resume the previous divorce petition you originally filed. You will have to start over, which means another six-month waiting period. 
• Under the Illinois Statutes, behaviors such as adultery, desertion, abuse, and addiction are grounds for divorce and can entitle you to a greater amount in your marital property settlement. If you reconcile with your spouse, it will be considered as if you accepted or condoned the behavior. If the marriage fails, you will not be able to bring these past actions up again. 

If you still decide to reconcile despite the legal ramifications, getting a post-marital agreement is a smart idea and can help protect your rights in any future divorce proceedings. 

Discuss Your Situation With Our Chicago Divorce Attorneys

At the Women’s Divorce & Family Law Group, we provide the trusted guidance you need to protect your rights in divorce-related matters. To request a consultation, contact our Chicago area divorce attorneys today.