If you’re thinking about getting a divorce, or if your spouse has already filed the paperwork, you’re probably wondering about the process for getting a divorce.
The truth is that it’s a little different for everyone – but generally speaking, this is the way it goes.
Divorce Process in Wisconsin
To begin a divorce, one party files paperwork with the court (except in an uncontested divorce, which requires both parties to file jointly). Ideally, you’ll have an attorney long before this happens; your attorney can file this paperwork for you.
Once your papers are filed, you’ll have to wait for your spouse’s response. If your spouse filed first, you’ll be the one to respond.
Then, negotiations begin.
You and your soon-to-be ex-spouse will have to decide what you can and cannot agree upon when it comes to child custody and placement, alimony or spousal support, and other issues. If you can’t reach agreements, your Wisconsin divorce attorney may recommend mediation; otherwise, he or she will help you craft an agreement to present to your spouse based on what’s fair to everyone involved. (If your spouse still doesn’t agree, your case may eventually go before the judge, who will make a final decision.)
After all the decisions have been made, either by you and your spouse or by your judge, the court will end your marriage. The divorce decree spells out everything you agreed to during the divorce, from child custody and child support to alimony payments and the division of your assets.
Once the judge has signed that decree, your marriage is officially over.
Do You Need to Talk to a Wisconsin Divorce Attorney?
If you’re contemplating divorce, or if your spouse has already filed the paperwork, you can benefit from talking to a Milwaukee Wisconsin divorce attorney. Call us at 414-383-6700 for a free divorce case review now.
