Stillings & Buchinger, LLC

Wisconsin Divorce & Family Law Attorneys

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green bay :: sheboygan :: manitowoc :: Berlin :: Wisconsin

divorce

Divorce occurs when a marriage between a man and a woman is terminated. A divorce action begins when the divorce petition is filed and it ends when the court issues a final judgment of divorce to dissolve the marriage - called the divorce decree.

legal separation

An alternative to a divorce is a Judgment of Legal Separation.  There are important differences between divorce and legal separation that should be discussed with your attorney.

See also :: How long does it take to get a divorce in Wisconsin? ::

Wisconsin is a No-Fault Divorce State

Wisconsin is a no fault divorce state, which means, in short, that Wisconsin does not require proof of wrongful behavior before a divorce can be started. One party must allege that the marriage is irretrievably broken and there is no chance of reconciliation. Based on those statements, the Court will find grounds for a Divorce. There does not have to be testimony of adultery, abandonment or abuse.

Common Law Marriages

Wisconsin does not recognize "common law marriages." No matter how long you have resided with someone, you will not be considered his or her spouse unless you have gone through a legally binding marriage ceremony. Wisconsin also does not recognize same sex marriages or unions. If you have been in a common marriage or same-sex relationship, you may have other property rights. This would not be handled through the traditional family law process, however.

free initial consultation

If you are contemplating divorce, or if you are prepared to file for divorce, please contact the law offices of Stillings & Buchinger, LLC for a free initial consultation.

The Law Offices of Stillings & Buchinger, LLC represent people with regard to family law, collaborative divorce, contested divorce, uncontested divorce, custody and support or maintenance matters. They frequently represent clients who reside in Neenah, Appleton, Green Bay, Oshkosh, Ripon, New London, Kaukauna, Little Chute, Ashwaubenon, and Stevens Point, Wisconsin. For Calument County actions in Chilton, Wisconsin, please refer to Calumet County divorce.