Divorce in Wisconsin
A divorce can be a difficult and exhausting time for all parties involved. If you’re struggling to deal with the divorce process, you may need a divorce attorney to guide you through the process. Our attorneys are also experienced in working with military divorce cases.
Steps in the Divorce Process
There are many steps involved in divorcing a spouse, especially if you have been together for some time. You might struggle to separate your property, make decisions for your children, and prepare for child support. All these things can turn even the most amicable parting into a fight in court over your property and children. We understand the emotional and financial impact of a divorce, and we’ll do our part to make the process easier on you. Here are the 6 basic steps in the divorce process:
- 1. Understanding the Types of Divorce
- 2. Filing the Paperwork
- 3. Obtaining Temporary Orders
- 4. Financial Discovery
- 5. Negotiation of Final Settlement
- 6. Divorce Resolution
Types of Divorce
One of the most common questions we hear regarding divorce is cost information associated with getting a divorce. Divorce costs change depending on the complexity of your case. Understanding the types of divorce and how each one may or may not benefit your unique situation is the first step to developing an understanding of the cost surrounding divorce.
Here are the 5 types of divorce:
- DIY Divorce: This is the most affordable option, and our attorneys will work with you to get through your divorce in an amicable, quick fashion.
- Uncontested Divorce: With a contested divorce, there are no material issues in dispute such as child support, child custody, property division, etc. If you are able to resolve all of these issues with your spouse, this may be a good option for you to consider.
- Mediated Divorce: Mediated divorces use a neutral family law mediator to help you and your spouse work through all issues in your divorce.
- Collaborative/Cooperative Divorce: With a collaborative or cooperative divorce, both parties and their attorneys are trying to resolve all issues outside of court.
- Contested Divorce: This is the most expensive option and requires you and your lawyer to appear in court to ask the judge to make orders regarding issues you and your spouse cannot agree on.
Divorce FAQ
We don’t want you to struggle with your divorce proceedings, and we understand this process can be overwhelming. Here are a few frequently asked questions from our clients that might be helpful. If you don’t find what you’re looking for here, take a look at our frequently asked questions page to help you decide your next steps. If you need more help, reach out to us to set up a free consultation to discuss your specific needs with our award-winning staff.
How long must you live in Wisconsin before you can file for divorce?
Before you can file for divorce, one spouse must have been a resident of Wisconsin for at least six (6) months and either spouse must have been a resident of the county where the action is started for at least 30 days.
If my spouse was abusive, what can I do when finalizing my divorce?
First, you may consider seeking a restraining order to protect yourself and your children. Next, you’ll need to gather any evidence of abuse by your spouse. Fortunately, presenting that evidence to a court can keep your children out of their custody. You may even stop visitation, since it could put you and your children in danger, which is obviously not in the children’s best interests.
Can I seek alimony in my divorce?
A divorce can be especially difficult on spouses who can’t immediately support themselves. For example, a disability might be keeping you from the workforce, or perhaps you stayed home to take care of the children and home. Fortunately, you will be able to seek alimony if you show that you need spousal support to maintain a healthy standard of living in Milwaukee.
What’s Next?
Sadly, a divorce is rarely easy. Even if you and your spouse are on the same page, there may be disputes which cause heartache and trouble for you, your spouse, and any children. Whether you need a mediator to help you and your spouse make decisions for your future or you’re trying to protect your future during litigation, a lawyer can make a difference.
1. How to set up a no-pressure, no cost attorney consultation
Reach out to us today by giving us a call or fill out the form at the bottom of this page to set up a free, one-hour consultation with one of our family law attorneys.
2. Learn more about our award-winning attorneys
When evaluating and deciding on the right family law attorney in the Greater Milwaukee Area, it’s important to find one who is transparent, compassionate, and knowledgeable; traits that all of our attorneys value.
