Divorce Laws in Wisconsin (WI)

Wisconsin is a community property state. This means all assets and debts acquired during the marriage are presumed to belong equally to both spouses and are typically split 50/50. Separate property — assets owned before marriage or received as gifts/inheritance — remains with the owning spouse.

The median uncontested divorce in Wisconsin costs approximately $9,000. Contested cases with significant property disputes average $38,000.

Wisconsin courts determine custody based on the best interest of the child standard. Courts consider the child’s relationship with each parent, each parent’s ability to provide a stable environment, the child’s adjustment to home and school, and any history of domestic violence or substance abuse.

Wisconsin uses the Percentage of Income model. Child support is calculated as a flat percentage of the non-custodial parent's gross income, varying by the number of children.

Spousal support in Wisconsin is determined by considering the length of the marriage, each spouse’s income and earning capacity, the standard of living established during the marriage, and each spouse’s contributions (including homemaking). Courts may award temporary, rehabilitative, durational, or permanent alimony depending on the circumstances.

Under Wis. Stat. §767.001, the court has broad discretion in setting the amount and duration of spousal support. Longer marriages (typically 15+ years) are more likely to result in longer-term or permanent alimony awards.