Castle will probably convince her to go back to work

It may stick for a couple of episodes next season, but I can't see it being a long term thing.

She has to come back to work, otherwise there would be no show. Within the first couple episodes of Season 5, I'm guessing she'll get her job back.

For now I can't imagine what the show would be about if Kate would leave the 12 precinct permanent. She would become private investigator or find a whole different job? So I think she'll be back on first few episodes.

She has to come back somehow - not sure what they'll do! There's so many different plots they could take... The 12th could her to come back because they need her help on a case; something happens and she gets mixed up in a case again and then she's gets back on the team; Castle talking her into going back! Who knows!! Can't wait for Season 5!

what sparky said. there's no way the writers have the balls to mix the show up that much! i mean what would it be about then? Kate discovers a new found love of singing and gets a record deal because of Castle's influence. Then the show's about her rise to the top and all the delicious drama that goes along with that. xD or she could pursue her love of law and become a prosecutor instead and it morphs into law and disorder. (Kate being the law part and Castle being the disorder). :D

Gates will probably ask her back for a personal case that she had been working on. If not she's gonna have to be courageous and ask for her job back.

I think that she will get her job back in the end of the first episode of season 5.

it probably isn't PERMANENT!!