Can You Pause Divorce Mediation? What Happens When You’re Not Ready to Decide

Divorce is rarely a straight path. Sometimes, in the middle of a mediation session or just after you’ve filed the paperwork, you hit a moment of clarity (or confusion):

Are we really ready for this?

Should we slow down and make sure this is what we want?

The short answer is: yes, you can pause the divorce mediation process and you’re not alone in wanting to do so.

Mediation Is Meant to Be Flexible

One of the key advantages of mediation over litigation is its flexibility. Unlike court dates and formal hearings, mediation is a conversation — one guided by a neutral professional, but ultimately led by you and your partner. If you need to take a break, whether it’s to explore reconciliation, attend counseling, or just get some emotional clarity, most mediators will understand. This is your process, on your timeline.

What Happens Logistically?

If you're in the middle of mediation and decide to pause, here's what usually happens:

• You communicate your decision to your mediator. Let them know you’d like to pause no need for long explanations unless you want to share.

  
  

• No further sessions are scheduled. The process is effectively on hold until (or if) you’re ready to come back.

  
  

• You can resume at any time. If you decide to move forward with the divorce later, you can pick up where you left off. Your mediator will help you reorient and adjust based on any changes since the last session.

  
  

• Legal timelines may still apply. If you’ve filed for divorce in court already, check with your mediator or attorney about any upcoming deadlines. Arizona has a 60 day waiting period that you’ll want to be aware of. Typically if you do not file a Consent Decree after the waiting period is over, your case can get assigned a dismissal date in a couple of months. Once a dismissal date is assigned, you still have time to file your Consent Decree prior to the dismissal date. 

  
  

Choosing Pause Over Pressure

Choosing to pause is not the same as avoiding the issue. In fact, it can be one of the most thoughtful decisions you make in this process. Whether you ultimately decide to continue with the divorce, reconcile, or explore other options like a legal separation, you’ll be doing so from a more informed and emotionally prepared place.