The state of Wisconsin recognizes both legal separation and divorce when couples decide to part ways. The difference is that a legally separated couple remains married while a divorced couple has the marriage dissolved. Similarities between the two include the division of finances and property as well as the handling of child custody and support. […]
Understanding Common Reasons for Divorce
Financial stress, poor conflict resolution, lack of intimacy, and lack of family support are among the top reasons leading up to a divorce, but all too often couples fail to recognize the signs that a marriage is in trouble before it is too late. Understanding common reasons for divorce can provide valuable information to those […]
Wisconsin Divorce at a Glance
Wisconsin is a no fault state when it comes to divorce, meaning that either spouse can petition for a divorce if they believe the marriage has become irretrievably broken, that the marriage can no longer be sustained. The Time it Takes to Get a Divorce in Wisconsin The state does require that couples observe a […]
Wisconsin Parenting Plans in a Divorce
When Wisconsin parents’ divorce, they will have to make many decisions regarding parenting issues which are largely addressed using a parenting plan. A parenting plan is a written agreement signed by both parents which provides clarity regarding the rights and responsibility of each parent and the physical placement (custody) of their children as part of […]
Preparing for Divorce Mediation
If you are considering divorce mediation, it is helpful to consider the issues that you will address in mediation ahead of time so that you can prepare. Financial Disclosure – As part of the mediation process, couples must provide full financial disclosure. Prepare for mediation by gathering information and related documentation showing income, assets, debts, […]
Any Advantages to Filing for Divorce First?
Many wonder if being the first spouse to file for a divorce is advantageous. They may believe if they initiate a divorce, they may achieve a more favorable outcome when it comes to child custody or property division. The fact is that whether you are the petitioner or respondent in a divorce proceeding does not […]
My Ex-spouse Will Not Stop Contacting Me
Even if a relationship was amicable during a marriage, if one partner wants to leave a marriage and the other does not agree, harassment may be the unfortunate result. If an estranged spouse repeatedly contacts you for no legitimate purpose despite being asked to stop, it can make it difficult to move on with your […]
Social Media Don’ts During Divorce
Anything shared on social media is public information which can be used against you in a divorce. Even private messages or posts could eventually find their way to your soon to be ex-spouse, potentially impacting your ability to negotiate a favorable settlement agreement. Social Media Don’ts During Divorce Although it might be tempting, avoid complaining […]
Tips to Reduce the Cost of Divorce
One concern that many divorcing couples share is the cost of getting a divorce. Even when divorcing couples see mostly eye to eye, it is difficult to reach an agreement without legal representation particularly if there are children involved or there are assets to divide, which may or may not be easy decisions to make. […]
Divorced Parents Vie for Child Tax Credits
With tax season in full swing, many divorced parents have questions regarding who gets to claim dependent children, which can have large impact on the taxes they will pay. This is not limited to the head of household filing status, but includes Dependent Care Credits and the Child Tax Credit, which can reduce taxable income […]
