Guiding You Through Divorce Proceedings In Northeast Wisconsin
Going through a divorce is never an easy process. It is important to have a knowledgeable attorney in your corner who can predict issues that will arise and prevent future problems down the road.
At Alpert & Fellows, LLC, our Green Bay attorneys have more than 40 years of legal experience that we will use to your benefit. You can rely on us for compassionate guidance during a divorce and for a broad spectrum of family law matters throughout the Green Bay area.
Call 920-335-1308 or email our law firm to learn more about your options regarding divorce and the issues that arise from it. We focus on providing personalized representation and dedicated advocacy.
Skilled Direction And Guidance Regarding Your Divorce
Whether you are involved in an emotional custody/placement battle, have ongoing property disputes, can’t agree on child or spousal support, or are anywhere in between, our Green Bay divorce attorneys have the experience you need to achieve your goals. We have handled all types of divorce issues for clients, including those involving:
- Child custody
- Child support
- Spousal support/alimony
- Property division and debt allocation – including credit card debt
- Paternity
Our Green Bay divorce lawyers understand the local court system and work diligently to protect your interests throughout the legal process.
Frequently Asked Questions About Divorce In Wisconsin
Divorce raises many practical and legal questions, especially for individuals and families in Northeast Wisconsin who are navigating the process for the first time. The following answers address some of the most common concerns people have when considering or moving forward with a Wisconsin divorce.
How long does it take to get a divorce in Wisconsin?
Wisconsin law requires a mandatory waiting period before a divorce can be finalized. Once divorce papers are properly filed and served, there is a minimum 120-day waiting period before the court may grant a final divorce judgment. This waiting period applies to all cases, even when both spouses agree on all issues.
In practice, the total timeline often extends beyond four months. Factors such as disputes over child custody, property division or support can lengthen the process. Court schedules, required mediation and the time needed to exchange financial information also influence how long a case lasts. While uncontested divorces generally move faster, contested cases may take several months or longer to resolve.
What documents do I need to file for divorce in Wisconsin?
To begin a divorce in Wisconsin, one spouse must file a Summons and Petition for Divorce. These documents formally notify the court and the other spouse that the divorce process has started. After filing, the papers must be properly served on the other party according to Wisconsin rules.
Additional documents are typically required as the case progresses. These may include financial disclosure statements, parenting plans when children are involved and proposed marital settlement agreements. Courts rely on accurate and complete paperwork to address custody, placement, support and property division. Missing or incomplete documents can delay the case or create avoidable disputes.
Can I file for divorce in Wisconsin without a lawyer?
Wisconsin law allows individuals to file for divorce without an attorney. This is sometimes referred to as filing “pro se.” While this option does exist, it often presents challenges and is generally unwise, especially in cases involving children, significant assets or ongoing disagreements between spouses.
Divorce involves strict procedural rules, deadlines and financial disclosures. Mistakes in filings or misunderstandings about legal rights can lead to unfavorable outcomes that are difficult to correct later. Issues such as custody placement schedules, child support calculations and division of retirement accounts carry long-term consequences. Even in seemingly simple cases, having an attorney’s guidance can help avoid future conflicts and unintended results.
Contact Us To Learn About Your Options
Call 920-335-1308 or contact us online to schedule a consultation to discuss your case. Our offices are conveniently located in Green Bay, Manitowoc and Sheboygan, and proudly serve clients throughout Northeast Wisconsin. We have flexible hours and make every effort to be available for your convenience.