Bill > SB189

Here is a summary of the bill: This bill provides an alternative method for finalizing a divorce or legal separation by allowing courts to enter a judgment based on signed affidavits instead of requiring an in-person hearing. Currently, all divorce and legal separation proceedings must involve a live court appearance, but this bill would permit couples to complete their divorce through paperwork if certain conditions are met. Specifically, the parties must either have legal representation or have worked with a registered lawyer mediator who has specialized dispute resolution training, and who helps draft the required legal documents. The parties must also sign and file a court-approved stipulation and submit an affidavit that explicitly waives their right to an in-person hearing. This approach could potentially make the divorce process more efficient and less emotionally taxing by reducing the need for direct courtroom confrontations, while still ensuring that both parties have had legal guidance and mutually agree to the terms of their separation.

Health and Social Services

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