How to File for Divorce in Wisconsin Without a Lawyer (2026 Guide)

Overview: Filing for Divorce in Wisconsin Without a Lawyer

Wisconsin requires 6 months residency (30 days in county) with a 120-day waiting period. The state is one of only 9 community property states and pure no-fault. DIY divorce is feasible for uncontested cases.

Can You File Without a Lawyer in Wisconsin?

✓ Good Candidates for DIY Divorce:

Both agree on divorce and all terms
No minor children or agreement on custody/support
Agreement on community property division (50/50)
No spousal support disputes
Both willing to cooperate

⚠ Consider Hiring a Lawyer If:

Child custody or support disputes
Complex community property division
Business ownership
Retirement account division
Contested grounds

Find Wisconsin Divorce Lawyers →

Step-by-Step: How to File for Divorce in Wisconsin

Step 1

Verify Residency

You or your spouse must have lived in Wisconsin 6 months (30 days in county).

⏱ Estimated Time: N/A

💡 Tips:

WI driver's license
Lease or property deed
Utility bills

Step 2

Complete Petition for Divorce

File Petition for Divorce with circuit court.

⏱ Estimated Time: 2-3 hours

💡 Tips:

Filing fee: $175-220
Use WI court forms
State irretrievable breakdown

Step 3

Serve Your Spouse

Serve spouse by process server or sheriff.

⏱ Estimated Time: 1-2 weeks

💡 Tips:

Cannot serve yourself
Spouse can waive service

Step 4

File Answer (if uncontested)

Spouse files answer agreeing to divorce.

⏱ Estimated Time: 1 week

💡 Tips:

Required for uncontested

Step 5

Wait 120 Days

Wisconsin requires 120-day waiting period from filing.

⏱ Estimated Time: 120 days

💡 Tips:

One of longest waiting periods

Step 6

Exchange Financial Disclosures

Both complete and exchange financial information.

⏱ Estimated Time: 2-4 hours

💡 Tips:

Required disclosure
List community property

Step 7

Prepare Marital Settlement Agreement

Create settlement dividing community property 50/50.

⏱ Estimated Time: 4-6 hours

💡 Tips:

Address community property equally
Include parenting plan if children

Step 8

File Final Documents

Submit settlement and final documents.

⏱ Estimated Time: 2-4 hours

💡 Tips:

Both signatures required

Step 9

Receive Final Judgment

Court issues final judgment of divorce.

⏱ Estimated Time: 1-3 weeks

💡 Tips:

Request certified copies
Effective immediately

Required Forms for Wisconsin Divorce

Petition for Divorce (Varies)

Required

📄 Download Form

Marital Settlement Agreement (Custom)

Required

Final Judgment (Varies)

Required

Note: Always use the most current forms from your state's court website. Forms may be updated periodically.

Cost Breakdown for Wisconsin DIY Divorce

💰 DIY Divorce

$225-320

Filing fee: $175-220
Service fee: $50-100
Misc costs: $25-$100

👔 With Attorney

$2,500-12,000

Includes attorney fees, court costs, and filing fees for uncontested to contested cases

For detailed cost breakdown including attorney fees and scenarios: View Wisconsin Divorce Costs →

Common Pitfalls to Avoid

Misunderstanding community property (50/50 division)

Not meeting residency requirement

Incomplete financial disclosures

Filing before 120-day waiting period

Missing settlement agreement details

Frequently Asked Questions About Wisconsin DIY Divorce

What is community property in Wisconsin?

Wisconsin is one of only 9 community property states. All property acquired during marriage is community property (50/50 split). Property owned before marriage or inherited is separate.

What is the waiting period in Wisconsin?

Wisconsin requires a 120-day waiting period from the date the petition is filed before divorce can be finalized. This is one of the longest.

Can I file for divorce without a lawyer in Wisconsin?

Yes, Wisconsin allows self-representation for uncontested divorces.

Need Professional Help?

While DIY divorce can save money in Wisconsin, consulting with an attorney can help you understand your rights and avoid costly mistakes.

Find Wisconsin Divorce Lawyers Questions to Ask a Lawyer