Practice Areas:Divorce, Family & Custody Law

Divorce, Family and Custody Law

Divorce, Child Support, Custody and Family Law

State law governs the relationship between individuals from the time of a marriage to the divorce. If there are minor children, then the issues of child support and custody must be determined by the court. Property division between spouses, including retirement plans and the income tax implications are critical. We have the experience and expertise to handle even the most complicated cases. Most divorces result in a marital settlement agreement which is a contract between the parties, in writing, which must be approved by the court. It sets forth what happens upon divorce and also sets forth what is to occur relating to any minor children. This is a complicated process and we have much expertise in drafting these agreements.

Marital Agreements (Prior to Marriage and Between Spouses)

Wisconsin is a "marital property" state. This means that if there is no agreement between the parties, then each person in the marriage is presumed to have a 50% ownership interest of the other person's assets and liabilities. Is that what the parties really intended? In second marriage situations, are there certain assets which should be protected for the children and/or grandchildren from the first marriage? Is this to be an agreement for the entire length of the marriage or are there certain time limitations? What happens if someone becomes disabled or incompetent? What happens if there is a death or divorce? All of these issues need to be set forth in a contract between the parties.

The State Bar of Wisconsin has provided information; not legal advice, regarding divorce and marital property that is based on Wisconsin law. We are providing this information to you to ensure that our potential clients are informed clients.