Ending a relationship is difficult, especially when children are involved. Many parents worry that a divorce or separation will have lasting effects on their children. In many cases, however, it isn’t the separation itself that causes the greatest challenges—it’s the conflict that continues afterward. Children generally adjust much better when parents can communicate respectfully, avoid…
Resources
Articles categorized by what phase of divorce you're currently experiencing:
Articles categorized by topic and areas of your life most affected by a divorce:
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When is Curfew for Children in Wisconsin
Many parents think of a curfew as a household rule, requiring children to be home by a certain time and to send a text if plans change. However, in some Wisconsin communities, staying out too late can lead to a citation for the child and sometimes even the parent. Is There a Statewide Curfew for…
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Past Due Child Support in Wisconsin
When parents separate, divorce, or otherwise raise a child in different households, one parent may be ordered to pay child support to the other. But what happens when those payments are missed or only partially paid? That unpaid amount is known as child support arrears. How Is Past-Due Child Support Tracked? Wisconsin child support payments…
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Signing Away Parental Rights in Wisconsin
The phrase “signing away parental rights” makes the process sound much simpler than it is. A parent may wish to give up their own rights to their child, or the other parent may seek to have those rights terminated, but neither can happen through a signature or private agreement alone. In Wisconsin, parental rights can…
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How Long Can You Leave a Child Unattended in Wisconsin?
Most parents eventually face the question of whether a child is ready to spend some time alone. It may be for a quick errand, time between school and work, or another situation in which constant supervision is not realistic. But how long can a child legally be left unattended in Wisconsin? Does Wisconsin Set a…
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Dismissing a Divorce
How to Dismiss a Divorce in Wisconsin To dismiss a divorce in Wisconsin, the process depends on the stage of your case. If your spouse has not yet filed a response, you may be able to dismiss the case by filing a Notice of Voluntary Dismissal. If your spouse has already responded, both parties can…
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What Money Cannot Be Touched in a Divorce?
Understanding what money and assets are protected in a divorce is critical if you want to avoid losing property that may be legally exempt from division. This article breaks down what money and property cannot be touched in a divorce, how those protections can be lost, and what steps you can take to help protect…
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What Happens if a Married Woman Gets Pregnant by Another Man
Many times in complex and sensitive family law cases, we see situations where a woman becomes pregnant while still married. If a married woman gets pregnant by another man, the husband is typically presumed to be the legal father. This complicates the divorce and raises questions about financial responsibility, legal obligations, and parental rights. Can…
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Who Gets the Dog in a Divorce?
TL;DR Summary: Who Gets the Dog in a Divorce? Legal Classification: When navigating dogs and divorce in Wisconsin, pets are legally considered personal property. By default, courts approach dividing pets in a divorce the exact same way they divide vehicles or furniture. Private Agreements: Because pet owners view their animals as family, couples can create…
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Does a Child Decide Where They Want to Live in Wisconsin?
Does a Child Choose Who They Live With in Wisconsin? No. Under Wisconsin law, a child does not legally decide where they want to live until they turn 18 or graduate from high school. Until a child reaches the age of legal adulthood, parents must follow the existing court orders regarding custody and physical placement,…
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Wisconsin Divorce Settlement: Understanding the Statute of Limitations
A common question for those seeking to recover assets is whether there is a statute of limitations on divorce settlement enforcement in Wisconsin. While many assume that a court order remains valid forever, Wisconsin law applies specific deadlines to different types of family law actions. Generally, there is no immediate statute of limitations for enforcing…
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Filed for Divorce but Want to Reconcile in Wisconsin?
If you have already filed for divorce but are considering a reconciliation, Wisconsin law provides a specific path to pause your legal case without losing your progress or your filing fees. Instead of immediately dismissing your action, you can use a legal “safety harbor” that allows you to test the reconciliation while keeping your rights…
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Engagement Is Off – Who Keeps The Ring in Wisconsin?
In Wisconsin, when an engagement is broken, the engagement ring is considered a conditional gift and must be returned to the person who gave it. The gift is conditioned on the marriage taking place, so if the wedding does not occur, the condition is not met. This rule generally applies regardless of who broke off…
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Can You Buy A House In The Middle Of A Divorce?
Short Answer Yes, you can buy a house in the middle of a divorce, but it is usually complex. Because you are still legally married until the divorce is final, the new home may be considered marital property and subject to division. In many cases, you will need your spouse’s written consent or a court-approved…
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What Are My Rights When It Comes To Cohabitating?
Does Wisconsin Recognize Common Law Marriage? No, Wisconsin does not recognize common law marriage; it was formally abolished by the state in 1917. Regardless of how many years a couple lives together or whether they present themselves as a married couple, they are not legally married under Wisconsin law. However, while common law marriage does…
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How Long Do Custody Battles Take and What Factors Make Them Drag Out
When parents begin the custody process, one of the first questions they ask is how long it will take. It is an understandable concern. Custody battles are emotionally exhausting and financially draining, and most parents simply want to reach stability for themselves and their children as soon as possible. Unfortunately, there is no one-size-fits-all answer….
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Common Questions a Guardian ad Litem Will Ask You and Your Child
What Not to Say to a Guardian Ad Litem and What to Expect the First Time You Meet A Guardian ad Litem investigation typically occurs when the parties involved are unable to reach an agreement on custody or placement decisions for their children. When the parties cannot resolve child-related issues independently, the court appoints an…
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How to Divide Digital Assets With a Milwaukee Divorce Lawyer
Divorce can be a complex and emotionally challenging process, especially when it comes to dividing assets without Milwaukee divorce lawyers helping you with child custody/child support, property division, or other family law matters in Milwaukee, WI. In today’s digital age, assets extend beyond physical property to include digital assets like cryptocurrency, mobile payment accounts, streaming…
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When can you request a change in Custody in Wisconsin?
We take numerous inquiries day in and day out from individuals who have gone through a family law case and are interested in changing custody. How does one go about it? Are there time restrictions for doing so? What is the burden of proof? What type of evidence does one need to modify the existing…
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How to Handle a Divorce Peacefully
How to Handle a Divorce Peacefully: A Guide to Constructive Transitions Divorce is traditionally associated with courtroom battles, heated arguments, and emotional upheaval. However, it doesn’t have to be a destructive process. With the right mindset and professional guidance, you can navigate this life transition with dignity. At Karp & Iancu, S.C. Family & Divorce…
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