This womens guide to divorce is intended for Wisconsin women who are facing divorce or thinking about their options in a failed marriage. Divorce can help you move on with your life if you have found yourself in an unhappy marriage. Understanding your rights is an important step in gaining your independence.
Wisconsin Divorce for Women
Divorce does not have to be a mysterious process. If you are a Wisconsin resident and you wish to divorce your husband, you should know the following about Wisconsin divorce laws:
- One of the parties must have been a resident of Wisconsin for at least six months to be eligible to file for a Wisconsin divorce.
- If custody of a child is contested in your Wisconsin divorce case, mediation will be required.
- Mediation may also be required in cases where joint custody is requested.
- Wisconsin allows for no fault grounds for divorce. If you both agree to the divorce, you can assert that irreconcilable difference led to the dissolution. Living separately for one year immediately prior to filing for divorce without possibility of reconciliation is another grounds for a Wisconsin divorce.
- Wisconsin is a community property state which means property acquired during marriage will likely be divided equally. If one spouse wishes to retain property which has a high value, the court may allow offset of other property to compensate the other spouse. You have the right to make other arrangements as to division of property in your divorce case as long as you both agree to sign a written agreement.
- You have the right to settle your case outside of court if you can both agree to all issues surrounding your divorce case. This can save you time, energy and money. It can also make the future a bit easier by limiting the amount of conflict and pain involved in the divorce process. Discuss the possibility of a mediation or collaborative divorce with your attorney if you think this is a good option for you.
Getting Legal Help
An attorney who handles Wisconsin family law cases can help you file for divorce. Having an attorney handle your divorce can make it easier and less time consuming. Your attorney will advise you of when you need to show up and prepare you in advance for any meetings with your husband and his attorney.
