Bill > SB189

This bill allows couples seeking divorce or legal separation in Wisconsin to complete their case through a final hearing by affidavit, eliminating the requirement for an in-person court hearing under certain specific conditions. To qualify for this alternative process, both parties must either be represented by legal counsel or have worked with a registered lawyer mediator who drafted their stipulation, and they must submit a comprehensive affidavit that includes detailed information about their case. The affidavit must cover numerous aspects of the divorce, such as residency requirements, confirmation that the marriage is irretrievably broken, disclosure of any domestic violence history, details about public assistance, potential surname changes, and an explicit waiver of the right to an in-person court hearing. By allowing this affidavit option, the bill aims to streamline the divorce process, potentially reducing court time and making the procedure more efficient for couples who are in agreement about the terms of their separation. The bill maintains important protections by requiring that both parties fully understand the stipulation, and it preserves existing restrictions, such as the six-month waiting period before remarriage and the need to meet all legal requirements for divorce.

Health and Social Services

https://docs.legis.wisconsin.gov/2025/proposals/reg/sen/bill/sb189