Most people navigating the divorce process are doing so for the first time, so it can be a challenging experience. Divorce law is a complex field, as there are many variables including each spouse’s financial situations and whether the couple has children. It’s normal to have questions about your rights and responsibilities when ending a marriage. The answers to the following queries will provide guidance as you begin this chapter of your life.

4 Common Questions About Divorce Law

1. What Is No-Fault Divorce?

Wisconsin, like many states, is a no-fault divorce state. This means the spouse who files does not have to prove or establish grounds for the divorce. For example, if the marriage ends because of infidelity, then you do not have to disclose that to the courts. All you are required to say is that the union is irretrievably broken.

2. What Are the Procedures for a Divorce?

There are six general steps to filing for divorce in Wisconsin:

• Complete the appropriate paperwork 
• File the forms at a courthouse
• Serve the other party with divorce papers 
• Attend a preliminary hearing to establish temporary custody and support as needed
• Attend a pre-trial conference to work out the terms of the divorce
• Go to trial if necessary and receive a finalization

3. How Long Does It Take to Get a Divorce?

There is no set time frame for how long a divorce can take. It depends on the what the couple needs to do, such as divide property or make custody arrangements. Wisconsin divorce law mandates a 120-day waiting period from the time you file to the date the agreement is finalized. Most cases are resolved within six months to one year of the initial filing.

4. What is a Collaborative Divorce?

During a collaborative divorce, both spouses work with their lawyers to set the terms for the dissolution of the marriage. As the name implies, this is a collaborative process in which both parties arrive at mutually agreeable conclusions and make compromises as necessary. A collaborative divorce gives individuals more power over the outcome rather than leaving decisions up to the court.

Ending a marriage is never easy, but the right divorce law attorney will help simplify the process. Since 2004 Luke A. Weiland, Attorney at Law of Wisconsin Rapids, WI, has been guiding clients through the divorce process to ensure their rights are protected. Call (715) 422-6808 to schedule a consultation, and visit the firm's website to learn more about their family law services. Follow them on Facebook and Twitter for additional updates.